Nature is the greatest teacher,

She is patient and tireless. Her aim is absolute.

I listen more and more these days as

I still my rebellion and angst.

Although, I trudge through hours as if it hurts to move,

I still wish for nothing but numb.

Would that I learn to stop craving long summer days

Midway through my darkest winter.

The icy air in this season is sudden,

it’s sharpness cuts to the bone.

Would that I might drop such trembling,

as easy and lay to rest simply,

each varying hue of yesterday.

Oh, that I might bow with brilliant command

without uttering a word at the close of day,

and ascend with such abandon as the moon—

neither wholeness,  nor part, nor emptiness

reducing her rise.

Would that I might rest calm amid the winds and torrential rain,

Alone and unmoved beneath

avalanche,

hurricane,

and every distressing goodbye.

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Editor: Bryonie Wise

Photo: elephant archives