The Ohio Poetry Association is proud to present  Ms. Barbara Stout 2009 OPA Summer Poetry Contest Winner

Poet Barbara Stout       We give you Ms. Stouts winning poem:   HARVEST   Does the sun say to the earth “I shall not shine for you if the flowers you bring forth today fade and die tomorrow”? The sun is in love with its own extravagant warmth. It shines upon the earth for the sheer joy of shining, demanding nothing in return.   And so shall I pour my love on you, with all the passion I possess. I hold no expectation of fruits to come, no attachments, no regrets. I love you for no purpose but the pure pleasure of loving.   Therein lies the harvest.