The new year starts off bravely, light
around its edges: Persimmons grow translucent

in a bowl. The hills are green; gray whales— 
pregnant females first—leap and plunge their way

to Mexico. Juncos, down from Oregon, fatten
in backyards, while ginkgo trees release their hoard of gold.

This early, we are hopeful—even the orange-bellied newts 
crossing busy roads, sure they will find love.