For our Common Ancestors

Past the labyrinth, beyond the watershed,
down the steep and dusty canyon wall, we edge.

Dappled light dances in our constant company
with switchback moves, we take flight and leave

The mundane, mechanistic world behind.
The valley floor bedecked with crackling pine

Amidst dry crumbling beds of oaky leaf,
the fragile strands of spiders cross our path.

Out of time, we stumble on the grove
of fallen giants frozen in repose.

Such stumps of redwoods gone could take
your breath, circled by offspring— silent

Witnesses. Tacit remains, stature unsurpassed,
fathers of fathers, mothers of mothers,

Splendid vision, illuminated grace! Your presence —
greenest moss and mottled burl

Ignited by the sun rays as they pass,
we stand by and watch our roots unfurl.