Texas in the Balance

Thomas Hemminger

August 2, 2026

Texas rain follows Texas heat. 

Sun rays blister for a time, 

‘til moisture can raise clouds.

Thunderstorms don’t frighten 

parched people and cracked land. 

Too dry?

Too drenched?

Too bad.

Balanced though, means

growing fields, 

breathing forests, 

and golden summers. 

Thomas Hemminger is an elementary music teacher living in Dallas, Texas. His work has been published locally in Dallas, as well as in The Wilda Morris Poetry Challenge, Texas Poetry Assignment, and The Poetry Catalog. His personal hero is Mr. Fred Rogers, the creator of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. It was through America’s favorite “neighbor” that Thomas learned of the importance of loving others, and of giving them their own space and grace to grow.