Winter Woods

Grice Bay, Tofino

gotofino.com

I walked once
in a white and wintery woods,
the branches arching o'er
as if in prayer,
as if a hidden sepulchre
we shared,
and I found a measure of peace
while I was there.

White Crow cawed once
as if in sad adieu,
looked long into my eyes
and then he flew.
I watched him go, a mix
of awe and rue.
What message he imparted,
I never knew.

It's to the trees I go
when I need rest.
My spirit sore,
make of their peace a nest;
tucked in my heart,
I go my way, thrice blessed.
It's to the trees I go,
when I need rest.