Golden rays
slice through darkly 
dappled clouds
scattering flashy flecks
of violet, indigo, and blue
the radiant hues
spray the valley gap 
starting at the tall mountain peaks
descending to the point
where the rocky mounds meet

I need a photograph
to preserve this moment
in my memory book
but I am on the highway
traveling was
the nearest off ramp 
miles away

The scene softens
colors blur
before I can break
for a side-road snapshot
thus today’s summer sunrise 
live with other memories
inside my mind