All through the valley
once wandered cool water
curving a clear course
winding its way between hills
before drought came, goats grazed.

Now all lies silent
slumbering in desert heat
shimmering golden.
Hot winds like hands lift the dust
tossing it around and about.

The mountains are bare
a backdrop for western films,
cowboys ride again,
horses gallop, shots are fired
saloon doors swing to and fro.

Sun burns, nothing grows
but scrub and cacti,
the wonder of it
shines through the arid desert,
beautiful landscape of dreams.