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Awakening to the Red Road - An Ecopoetic Odyssey, 'Part 2 of 6'

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Awakening to the Red Road -
An Ecopoetic Odyssey, 'Part 2 of 6'
- Daniel Henry Rodgers

Our human greed is like a jackhammer pounding relentlessly in my skull. For it is threatening to drown out this living world's sacred song. But stop for just a second. Try quieting that inner noise rattling around in your brain. Try Opening your heart and your mind's eye. Maybe you'll you'll just bear witness to a different, more profound melody rising up from these ancient woodlands that I like to call home.

In the next section, "Nature's Cyclical Dance," I will attune your senses to the resilience of this nurturing Earth that's cradled humanity since we first walked upright.

Blessings,

Daniel

"You must teach your children that the ground beneath their feet is the ashes of our grandfathers. So that they will respect the land, tell your children that the earth is rich with the lives of our kin. Teach your children what we have taught our children -- that the earth is our mother. Whatever befalls the earth, befalls the sons of the earth. If men spit upon the ground, they spit upon themselves." - Chief Seattle

Stay tuned for Section III: Ecological Awareness, which will be unveiled in a few days!

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II. Nature's Cyclical Dance End is not death. Changing into something new is good. A leaf falls, then goes back into the dark soil. Next year's flowers sleep under winter's quiet. We fear the end, but nature shows us it's not bad. Death is a new start. My Anishinaabe mentor Little Deer laughed at my wide eyes. That first forest walk, as he plucked a bright trillium — "Cherish her fleeting beauty, but mourn her not, my friend. This flower's death will birth a thousand more to come." His people know life dances on; death is rebirth. I hear them now. Those ancient voices riding wind's breath. They speak through birch and pine... calling me back to the way — Honoring and not fearing, the seasons' turning tides. Each dawn's first birdsong and each brook's gentle murmuring Echoing the rhythm pulsing through this wild... and wondrous earth. Let me join this cycle, rooted but free. I'll welcome death and the return of life. Like the forest floor, decay and new growth mix. With every breath, I'll connect with the source. This cycle of life, death, and being born again is a gift. ---- "The Sacred Forest, a Nurturing Mother, never lets life die, / But reclaims, recycles, and rebirths in her eternal lullaby." - Daniel Henry Rodgers

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Shadow Hamilton

Date: 7/22/2024 1:28:00 PM

Again Daniel you tell us how it is wonderful write my dear friend see you in the forest hugs Shadow

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 7/24/2024 7:55:00 AM

Dear Shadow, I am impressed that you are reading the series and I hope that each one builds upon the last. Thank you for your affirmations. - Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Valsa George

Date: 6/19/2024 9:14:00 PM

Death is not something to be grieved, but to be celebrated as it is giving way to rebirth... not only in human lives, but in nature too. There is an eternal cyclic rotation in nature. When a leaf falls, it rots and makes the soil fecund for the saplings to sprout and grow. Destruction and creation....! This resilience of Nature makes it still beautiful and adorable despite man's callous attack on her. This cycle is an on going process. "Like the forest floor, decay and new growth mix. With every breath, I'll connect with the source. This cycle of life, death, and being born again is a gift." What a soulful conclusion to the poem. I simply love your series... dear Daniel.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/20/2024 11:12:00 AM

Dear Valsa! I have always loved reading your insightful comments. I get the sense you would make a good Stoic or Buddhist or Daoist because of their appreciation for the circle of life. I think you see life and death for what they are and yes, the idea that death does bring rebirth is natural. Not just for us necessarily but for all nature. Yet, despite humanity’s often careless actions, nature is resliant and remains a testament to this ongoing process. I want to thank you and your appreciation for the series truly means the world to me. Thank you! - Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Joseph May

Date: 6/12/2024 6:30:00 AM

Nature wastes nothing, everything is used to replenish another, Your poem illustrates this 'eternal dance' well..

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/13/2024 7:57:00 AM

Hello Joe, I agree that nature recycles everything. The Native Americans believed that one should not spit on the ground because it was like spitting on those who had passed. They understood the recycling of resources. - Blessings, Daniel

Joe Maverick

Date: 6/10/2024 1:34:00 PM

You touch on re-birth Daniel..And such is there For the human soul, here we see a sketch of it In the earth and skies and the different waters If all types' some religions teach people are Reincarnated..Yet its not the case..Only in the Exeptional cases of Elijah Lazerus and Jesus For all things are possible to God! Yet these Men Jesus as a part of thd God head who left His divinity 'in care of God his father' until He accomplished His mission ) are speceial 'signposts for people to learn From.' May God be with you.'

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/11/2024 5:02:00 AM

Dear Joe, Thank you for the visit and comments. In Earth’s canvas and celestial expanse we do glimpse the soul’s sketch. Yes, while some faiths teach reincarnation, exceptional cases like Elijah, Lazarus, and Jesus defy the norm. They serve as signposts, guiding us toward greater understanding. - Blessings, Daniel.

Benjamin Bartley

Date: 6/6/2024 3:00:00 PM

Thank you. That was amazing.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/7/2024 9:35:00 AM

Hello Benjamin, Thank you for your wonderful visit, and it is very appreciated. - Blessings, Daniel

Tom Woody

Date: 6/6/2024 5:01:00 AM

Eternal renewal designed by an eternal God who had (has) eternity in mind for us, those made in his image. I'm not much for native beliefs, but they certainly had a live and respect for the land, which is commendable

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/7/2024 9:34:00 AM

Hello Tom, Thank you for this second visit and comments. I believe that our native friends can teach us about respect for all life, which is perhaps not at the forefront of our modern thinking. I do not go for their mystical aspects because, as you and I know, there is only one Creator God who is to be worshiped and obeyed. - Blessings, Tom, and have a Great Weekend! - Daniel

Kim Rodrigues

Date: 6/4/2024 5:13:00 PM

Death is sweet release; rich, dark soul; ‘neath Winter’s hush, an open door, rebirth…a flower’s death will birth a thousand more…whispering through birch and pine…feet rooted yet free…such spectacular imagery and woven thoughts! Blessings ~ Kim

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/5/2024 6:47:00 AM

Dearest Kim, your comments are always pure poetry themselves! I'm in awe at how you distilled the essence so beautifully - the duality of death/rebirth, the richness of nature's cycles, imagery of whispering trees and rooted freedom. You have such an incredible gift for seeing into the heart of a piece. Having my "woven thoughts" and attempt at "spectacular imagery" land with a brilliant poet like you is the highest honor. Thank you for these insightful, lyrical words and warm blessings. Means the world! - Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Ink Empress

Date: 6/4/2024 11:48:00 AM

Dear daniel, another excellent and exquisitely woven write that left me in awe! Apologies for my absence and delay in reading your poems, but iv been a bit unwell now back and reading your poems, and i must say this write right here deserves all the accolades! I love nature, and i find comfort through nature and as i read this i felt like your words are like a gateway to open readers senses and to take us on a journey that is worth appreciating! What a brilliant and profound write! Fave it is

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/5/2024 6:45:00 AM

Dearest Empress! No need to apologize at all, I'm just glad you're feeling better. Your thoughtful comments on my nature poem made my day (As Always). The fact that you felt it opened a "gateway" to appreciate the journey just means the world. You know I pour my heart into trying to connect readers with the beauty and profundity of the natural world through my words. Knowing this one is a fave for a nature lover like you is the highest compliment! Thanks for always showing so much love to my work. You're the best! - Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Paige Hind

Date: 6/3/2024 4:45:00 PM

Ah, in the awe of Nature, birth, death, rebirth, you have described it so beautifully...

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/4/2024 8:59:00 AM

Dear Paige, I am so appreciate of your thoughts and comments on my poems. Thanks My Dear Friend, Blessings, Daniel

Susan Manley

Date: 6/3/2024 9:01:00 AM

I smell those earthy smells of the forest of birch and pine as I read through your poem about death, decay and rebirth each in time. I think in those settings I drop into my more animal state. And notice the wind, the trees, the smells and sounds and less my emotional state. Thanks for the mental vacation!

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/4/2024 8:58:00 AM

Dear Susan, Thank you for your lovely feedback on my poem. I'm glad it transported you to the forest, allowing you to connect with nature's cycle of death, decay, and rebirth. It's wonderful to hear that it helped you focus on the sensory experiences of the forest. Your words are always filled with inspiration for the poetic soul. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! - Blessings, and Hugs, Daniel

Tonye George

Date: 6/2/2024 11:31:00 AM

Our departure is only but a transformative entrance and path to a new dawn. I Love how you have narrated that life doesn't end here on earth. And we are all part of the process and the cycle just flows. "Where each fallen leaf enriches the soil, Feeding roots that birth new blossoms in the spring." I agree with these words and it resonates. Nature feeds the earth, We feed them too and in turn they feed from us and feed us too. So yeah! Nature is a whole creature, could be my friend in my past.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/4/2024 8:56:00 AM

Dear Tonye, Thank you so much for your beautiful comments on my poem. I'm thrilled that the message reached deep within you. I reflect your thoughts on the cycle of life and nature's interconnectedness, which are genuinely inspiring. Indeed, nature is a part of us, and we must cherish and protect it. There is so much to respect in nature and so much beauty to observe and we as humans take so much for granted. Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Tonye George
Date: 6/2/2024 11:32:00 AM

You have written this so well Dear, friend. Nature is us so we must treat it good. Cheers Daniel.

Sotto Poet

Date: 6/2/2024 11:26:00 AM

Dear Daniel, Your poem's emphasis on life and death's cycle of change and rebirth instead of death is powerful. And examines life's interdependence and the natural cycle of life, death, and resurrection. It promotes empathy and eco-balance. The poem combines polite phrasing to show metamorphosis via lush flora, death, and resurrection. Your poetry emphasizes life and death's metaphysical and repeating features with "sacred," "ancestors," "harmony," and "resilience". Personification ("Mother Earth's daughters") and metaphor ("dance of life and death") increase imagery and meaning.

Silent One

Date: 6/2/2024 10:43:00 AM

The second part to your poem is a poignant celebration of the cyclical dance of life and death that permeates the natural world. Through its evocative imagery, reverence for indigenous wisdom, and themes of interconnectedness and renewal, the poem inspires readers to embrace the sacredness of all life and to honour the timeless rhythms of nature. It serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring beauty and resilience found in the eternal cycle of existence.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/4/2024 8:52:00 AM

Dear Silent One, Yes, let us all come together and celebrate the cyclical dance of life and dear. I grew up out in the country and had some indigenous people who lived around us. I always had a deep respect for them because they truly appreciated nature in such a way that it is hard to comprehend for most. Thanks, Again, Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Duke Beaufort

Date: 6/2/2024 7:16:00 AM

Daniel, I like how you are building suspense with this series of poems and am looking forward to the next one already. A kind and wise belief looks at life in the way you and the native Americans do. It bestows a real sense of honor on those who have come before and encourages us to protect this cycle. Hard to fathom how our society keeps producing materials that do not decay and nourish, but rather stand "forever" as garbage or trash...or worse if they have toxic effects. It's a rash departure from the norm that existed for millions of years (even before humans ever roamed the earth if we consider other species) and hardly better living through chemistry. There's a view that what we do is for our benefit and ignores the impact on the environment as a whole. It really makes no sense whatsoever.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/4/2024 8:49:00 AM

Thank you so much Duke, Your reflections on my poem are deeply appreciated. Your insights about our society’s disconnect with nature are thought-provoking. It’s heartening to know that you share the same respect for our ancestors and the environment. I guess they can call us Tree Huggers and it is a badge of honor. Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Mystic Rose Rose

Date: 6/2/2024 2:54:00 AM

An eternal lullaby such as this deserves to be honored and respected for life. Your richness of soul takes my breath away, Keep up the writes, they surely inspire, !

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/2/2024 4:39:00 AM

Dearest Rose, I'm truly touched that my poem sang to you as an "eternal lullaby." Your kind words about the richness of soul in my writing humble me deeply. Thank you for this incredibly thoughtful feedback - it inspires me to keep creating from the heart. Your support means so much. - Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Victor Buhagiar

Date: 6/1/2024 11:16:00 PM

A testament to nature's resilience and cyclical dance: how true that is. Even from a burned forest, life can appear—profound poetry.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/2/2024 4:38:00 AM

Dear Victor, I'm honored my poem struck a chord with you regarding nature's resilience. Capturing the cyclical dance of life emerging from decay was my goal. Your thoughtful feedback affirms I achieved that aim. Thank you for your kind words - they're deeply appreciated. - Blessings, My Friend, Daniel

Hilda Greenhough

Date: 5/31/2024 1:25:00 PM

I enjoy this beautiful poem. I like it's referral to the Anishinaabe and the straightforward advice of respect for the planet. Well done.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/2/2024 4:32:00 AM

Dear Hilda, thanks so much for your kind words! I'm delighted the Anishinaabe reference and environmental message connected with you. Your appreciation means a lot. Receiving positive feedback from thoughtful readers like yourself makes the writing journey all the more rewarding. - Blessings, My Friend, Daniel

Sam Kauffman

Date: 5/31/2024 11:01:00 AM

Yahoo! Installment two! Your inherent sense of the cycle of life through images of nature's renewing power is inspiring. It reminds me that everything in life is truly cyclical from crickets to leaves in the old saw "This too will pass." Indeed it is an "eternal rhythm" that "pulses." It is a dance where we change partners every season. I so needed this poem today. Thank you for this gift and this blessing. Sending you blessings of continued renewal and my gratitude, my friend!

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/2/2024 4:30:00 AM

Dear Sam, Your heartfelt reflections on touched me deeply. I'm humbled that the cyclical imagery and nature's renewing power resonated. Your insights about life's eternal rhythm are very insightful. Thank you for seeing this poem as a gift and blessing when you needed it most. Your gratitude and blessings for continued renewal mean everything. I'm grateful for your friendship and our soulful exchanges as writers. - Blessings, My Friend, Daniel

Paula Goldsmith

Date: 5/31/2024 10:08:00 AM

WOW!!! What a part 2 write/story. We could learn from the past but most will not. Love your quote... Have A Blessed Day/Weekend Writing Away..............

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 6/2/2024 4:27:00 AM

Dear Paula, thanks a million for your kind words. Your thoughtful feedback means the world. I'm glad the quote connected - writing is such a journey of growth. Wishing you an amazing weekend filled with inspiration and creativity! Keep shining bright. - Blessings, My Friend, Daniel

Lin Lane

Date: 5/31/2024 6:42:00 AM

I must beg for time enough to appreciate the depth of these 6 parts. To read anything you write with haste would be a terrible injustice to you, and to myself for not allowing your skill to be absorbed fully. I want the aroma before the appetizer, the main course before the dessert, and then the sigh of realizing that I've just read poetry in its epitome. Soon, Daniel.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/31/2024 7:19:00 AM

Dearest Lin, your note fills me with gratitude. I'm humbled by your desire to fully absorb and savor each line, allowing the depth to unfurl at its own pace. Poetry should indeed be experienced like a multi-course meal - with the aroma whetting the appetite, the flavors of each course appreciated, and a contented sigh as the final echoes linger. Your willingness to grant this work the time it deserves is the highest compliment. I eagerly await your thoughts once you've had a chance to let the words resonate. Until then, my thanks for your appreciation. Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Joe Dimino

Date: 5/31/2024 6:15:00 AM

Excellent read, Daniel. The ashes beneath our feet are grandpa's remains, that should be cherished and respected, and also the journey of our own combined souls, for the earth our mirror reflection. "Warblers of the wind carry ancestors' voices, guiding us Their breath rustling through leaves, calling us to harmony" -- Love it! "And the chorus of crickets at dusk sings of life's unending cycle." We do this all to our selves. We are not here to be in harmony with earth, but to make harmony out of our fragmented self -- earth will follow suit. According to my experiences and observations anyway...who knows? If we indeed have Freewill...it can be no other way.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/31/2024 7:17:00 AM

Thank you so much, Joe; your insights beautifully deepen the poem's meaning - the ashes being ancestors' remains deserving reverence, the earth mirroring our souls' journey. Your perspective on seeking inner harmony to then find harmony with nature perfectly captures the essence. The notion that true free will means the path to harmony begins within ourselves first is wonderful. Your experiences and observations open up new interpretive vistas, enriching the poem's intentions. I'm grateful for your generous, insightful engagement which has allowed these profound themes to blossom. Blessings, My Friend, Daniel

Awakening to the Red Road - An Ecopoetic Odyssey, 'Part 2 of 6'

Awakening to the Red Road - An Ecopoetic Odyssey, 'Part 2 of 6' - Daniel Henry Rodgers

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Awakening to the Red Road -
An Ecopoetic Odyssey, 'Part 2 of 6'
- Daniel Henry Rodgers