Susan J. Erickson wrote this poem about the June 10, 1999 pipeline explosion in Bellingham.

"Whatcom Creek Prayer"

Remembering the June 10, 1999

gas pipeline explosion.

Whatcom Creek reads like a life line

on the palm of our town, flows from the thumb

of its water source, traverses head

and heart lands until it enters the sea. This creek

is a line of destiny, too:

how we write communal history.

Walk along the creek.

Listen for the kuk-kuk-kuk

of a pileated woodpecker. Inhale

the green scent of moss layered on stones

and cedar. See the fire-blackened totems

of fir trees, witnesses to all that ruptured

when a gas pipeline exploded

and Liam, Wade and Stephen died.

From then until forever, this place

is ours to hold and keep holy.

Reach DEAN KAHN at dean.kahn@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2291.