Ancient and Alive

Ancient and Alive

Trees old enough
to remember hearing
the footsteps of God
rise into clouds
collecting rain
to quench their thirst.

Massive branches
hang down
and out with tips up,
like an eagle
stretching to snatch the wind.

The sun filters
through mute-green needles
stitching lacy patterns
on the forest floor.

Blood brown trunks, nourished
by the bones
of the Pomo people
carry the scars of epochs.
They tower above the shaded ferns
while roots spread deep and broad,
anchored to the damp earth.

At the foot of a giant,
a broken twig lies in the scent
of mud, musk and decay,
a reminder of my mortality.

Here in the mist from the near-by Pacific
nature's cathedral is my sanctuary.
                    ---Judi Van Gorder

Notes: ▼

Free Verse
28 Lines
3rd place Round 58 March 2018

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Shadows and Light Poetry Contest  (E) Do you love the challenge and creativity of free verse poetry? This contest is for you. #1935693 by Choconuts Roasting