This Accident of Being Lost (Leann Betasamosake Simpon)

 

these dark trees breathe for me

many times a day

when I cannot walk myself –

no longer able to take one more step

or falling

breathless

into holes in the path

edged with grasses too tall to warn me of the gap.

 

my best laid plans lead me,

inevitably

to places so distant from the destination Creator

Great Spirit

Gichi Manitou

wanted for me –

the walk back to the starting point is always so much farther than necessary

if I had listened to those trees in the first place.

All I want is to walk with grace,

shod with silk stockings made of prayers

so I bring medicines in my basket

when I miss another turn to find others lost like me.

 

it’s good to be here these days

in the company of Synchronicity’s children

where we are never lost by accident.

 

(c) r. l. elke