When the trillium begins to bloom

and the streams cannot be ephemeral.

Then she will wake in the mountains

and drink from the maple.

Drink deeply, and follow the streams-

quick, before the laurel can wilt.

She’ll dance in summer flowers

while her feet become planted.

Strawberries ripen and the roots rise.

The vine of the sweet pea caresses her calf,

guiding her gently and into the valley.

Still, vines will creep higher, and their leaves

will soon fall; lay in her colors as

she turns to the sky.

her hair will be feathered with

the heron’s goodbye-