She’s been calling me for weeks, this grand Sycamore. I lay in bed with a chest that rattled and eyes heavy with sleep as I thought of her. I have missed the smell of the river drenched earth coated with acorn hats and flower petals. I have missed my deer kin quietly watching me through the branches, their eyes soft and curious. Oh how I have missed these lands that shape my life so effortlessly. Today I walked slowly into the woods, my faithful pup by my side. The Heron called from the river bank, a prehistoric type of melody. Through a bend in the trail a Northern Flicker greeted me with endless chatter. Mushrooms danced along fallen giants, bringing life after death. Mere reminders that there is more beyond this realm. Another twist and she came into sight; Queen of the forest. A daddy long leg tickled my skin as I made contact with her bark. Just then the skies opened up. My own eyes damp I found comfort in the nook of her trunk. Sheltered underneath the honeysuckle laden with berries, the river air kissed my healing lungs as I took a deep breath in. My first in weeks. Body soft like an animal I whispered to the earth, I love I love I love you. Somewhere deep in the forest I heard her whisper back, “Welcome home.” -JL
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