In Rains Such as This

In rains such as this
Light becomes indistinct
As though it radiates
From nowhere
As though it comes
From everywhere.

Even sounds change.
Other than the whispering
Of tires on the street
Sounds flatten; hush.
I can hear
Usually private conversations
From considerable distances.

The only sense that lessens
In rains such as this
Is sight.
The downpour draws a veil
Over the eyes
Reducing vision to feet
Not yards.

The strangest affectation
Is memory.
I am uncertain my memory
Is as true
In rains such as this.
Perhaps memories become
Rain-washed
Sanitized for Your Protection
Like the paper bands
Fitted around toilet seats
In cheap motels.

Memories lose their edge
When standing
In rains such as this.
Pain is not as acute.
Anger reduces to a simple disturbance.
Even thoughts of love
Glaze over.
Old aching sadnesses
Seem tame.

The memory of
Her kiss
Always volcanic
Gentles.

Her embrace
Always molten
Cools.

Her body
Always narcotic
Sobers.

Her loss
Always mournful
Feels negotiable.

I try not to think of her
In rains such as this.

It is better
To read the sale ad
In a grocery window
Or study the elderly man
Awaiting his bus
At the corner.

That is good counsel
In any weather....
But especially
In rains such as this.