Crow came by
bringing news of the forest,
of salmon asleep in branch water,
beaver at work in the creek flows
and rooted beneath the ancient trees
the peace of the earth gathered in pools
still and deep beyond measure.

Beside the old well
grandmother spreads her blanket,
her shells and stones laid out
in circular patterns,
her hands weaving stories
of what has been and what will be.

Crow carries us her heartbeat,
his black eyes and feathers
shaped by her in the long ago,
with a message to remember,
and not let our spirits be broken
as we follow the river.

 


photograph by Edward Curtis

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13 Responses

  1. The sweetness of this poem adds to its depth. The tapestry of your soul is rich Don, and I give thanks for your generous sharing of it with us.

  2. I find myself sinking deeply, peacefully into this wonderfully mystical poem, Don. Thank you.

  3. Don, I never remember to remark about the combination of photograph and poem each week. You have combined two exceptionally strong parts in today’s work. Thank you.

  4. Don, thanks again for enriching our lives with your wisdom. “…reminders to be alert…” Alertness in heart, mind and body is so crucial in these days. Thoughts, words and actions born of inattentiveness and mindlessness can have destructive results. Alertness can keep us wise, strong and compassionate. May we all be alert.

  5. As we travel to the sea, we sense the storms coming and going……..we stay alert, clear head and mind, always sensing the right and smoothest course to our destination. Wonderful presentation, Don! Thank you!

  6. Thank you Don, for drawing attention once again to the spread of grandmother’s blanket, beside the old well; and for messages, and the reminders to be alert—most important in this day as we follow the great river to the sea

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