The River That Changed

For generations, the village measured time by the river.

When the water rose, the fishing boats went out at dawn.

Recently, the rhythm has become unpredictable.

Scientists point to rainfall patterns, dams and warmer air.

Fishermen describe the same change in simpler words: fewer fish.

Some families now depend on vegetable gardens instead.

Others send a son or daughter to work in the city.

Adaptation is quiet work, and it rarely makes the news.