Only here, only now

the maple’s cooling shade
brought peace that gently stayed
it taught me life’s true way
the rest is just worldly play

time moves slowly
here in the woods
allowing us to think
allowing us to be

we think we’re above it all
a conqueror with hiking gear
and a weekend pass
but we’re small
a breath, a blink
a rustle that won’t be remembered

we feel entitled
as we paid to be here
but should we really?
to the woods
we’re not residents
just a momentary present
a flicker of noise
in a place that thrives in silence

no need to leave a mark
listen, breathe, take part
no walls, just a tent
stitched into the land
you feel the wind move through
you feel the life move too
collect wood, light a fire
open sky, stars to admire

what’s needed here
is always near
you’re not above
you’re only here
only now

– dh