Varied

Your elusive way

In this ancient place

Forgives my shyness

As if you already agree

that quiet is best here—

Celebrated even

Your temporary alight

on the stage of moss and vine

Forgives my wandering

As if you already agree

that seeking is best here—

Expected even

Your curious face

Looking back at me

Forgives my staring in awe

As if you already agree

that wondering is best here—

Assumed even

Your brilliant varied oranges,

whisking with charcoal

like smoldering embers

in this rain forest

Forgives my burning questions

As if you already agree

that so much is beyond

our understanding

As you swoop & sweep

just past my reverent gait

from underneath & behind

I believe I am following you,

yet perhaps you follow me

Either way

I feel our swelling of hearts vitality

in our shared forgiveness, our humility

As if you already agree

the magnificence of life is in

the varied of it all—

Sacred diversity of Aliveness

Photo of Varied Thrush By Philip Hutcherson @onmurdencove.com in the hallway of moss in the Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park