April is National Poetry Month in the United States. As we recognize this literary celebration and the impact poets have, we honor Ruth Bell Graham, wife of Billy Graham, who was a well-respected and recognized author and poet in her own right. The poem below is from Mrs. Graham’s book, Clouds Are the Dust of His Feet.

Primitive

I am a primitive.
     I love
primordial silences
     that reign
unbroken over ridge
     and plain,
unspoiled by
civilization’s roar.
I love the lonesome sound
     of wind,
the solitary crashing
     of a tree,
the ceaseless wash of waves
     upon the shore,
wind, lightning, thunder,
     and the pouring rain
are symphonies to me.

Read more poems from Ruth Bell Graham.