Awakening to the Red Road: An Ecopoetic Odyssey 'Part 5 of 6'

V. "The Great Collective Awakening" Aren't we the true definitive problem, not just astray- malignant corporations… Or unresponsive governments ? We are faulted; consumers telling them: demanding them: just make more… Disposable, Processed yet, Cheap, and grey ? Is it possible to hear the songs of the meadowlarks? We are just like street addicts in denial, For we, arms folded- refuse to face the ultimate stark truth, until we… rudely awaken! Oh, We let the earth be suffocated under thick and massive layer of plastic, which are thrown into hundreds of parks. Or are laid down in the middle of the sea- in margins of cities; lay down… your head upon mine and weep. Is it possible to hear the songs of the meadowlarks? My soul breathes out and addresses, the friendly trees promise to keep us company, all these are the messages that nature sends forth. We must simplify existence: own fewer things of quality. Alternative to mindless excess ? awaken our ancestors' wisdom… For they walked in nature's blessing - respecting all things of earth. Listen: I can hear them cry for us ... our sacred... our dwelling place… our mother nature and earth. Is it possible to hear the songs of the meadowlarks? I shout to you, “Reduce Plastic Use!” carry Reusable, Recyclable Bags and Bottles, my friend. I plead, “Recycle Diligently!” please support sustainable brands. Stand and make a choice for local and organic foods / to lessen the expanding footprint. Only plant native trees - create green spaces in urban lands. Is it possible to hear the songs of the meadowlarks? Look: Lakota, they honor the sacred hoop, A call we must heed… Listen to the Seven Fires' teachings, While recognizing our place, our living space. For in this great circle of life Yes, where all are family that is interconnected. Just like spokes on a turning wheel, Look in the Black Hills' ancient legacy. We must use renewable energy sources: solar, wind, hydro… We must reduce energy consumption: switch off lights, unplug devices... We must support policies: that truly protect the environment. We must engage in community: clean-up projects and conservation efforts. Is it possible to hear the songs of the meadowlarks? There, you hear the low breathing voice of the boundless prairie, and the great heap of the mother. Listen closely, We receive messages through the ancestors who advise us. Stop, and feel that bond… the harmony of… The Red Ride. Look, a troupe of wisdom comes down from the Ancient of Days, infinite times. For in the Lakota realm, the river - is a sacred, precious - a fully local garden and already a sustainable organism. The issue is to take care of, not to exploit, the necessity of sustenance. Look we see the Lakota’s simplicity lives in balance with nature's rhythms. Listen and tread lightly my friend. Leaving no footprints of betrayal. For we are only temporary guests in this ever-verdant nest, For we are truly blest. Is it possible to hear the songs of the meadowlarks? Now it is time, so let us translate these ancestral songs Into a collective awakening, a chant of forever change… May the wisdom of the Lakota guide us, and, YES! The Songs of the Meadowlarks Forever Ring. As they Guide us To a Greener Dawn Where WE can Sing & Sing & SING. Oh, What Can Our Legacy BE.....