Worshipping In Nature's Sanctuary

Johnny-Jump-Ups nestle into the forest floor mosses, Along with dainty Jack-in-the-Pulpits hiding beneath The larger fronds of swampy ferns soaking up moisture From the dew-laden flowering branches of laurel Where I find myself dreaming in the verdant woodland, Edging the meadow beyond the cluttered beaver stand. A canopy of vine-entangled branches, a vault-like nave, Provides a sanctuary of sacred candles dimmed for mass A pew-less haven for wounded souls, and tiny chipmunks, Who scurry to find isolated spots for quiet meditation While grebes and gallinules make up the choir ensemble; A purple swamphen takes up the guttural baritone line. The late morning is mine, sitting along the narrow trail In a cross-legged yoga pose with arms across my knees, Soaking up the faint sweet smells of sassafras and pine And slipping into what I sometimes call my “blue funk” Where nothing on earth matters outside this quiet shelter, Dozing softly, I dream of a utopian sweet, elusive peace. FIRST PLACE WINNER (TROPHY) June 25, 2022 Submitted to: "Poetry Marathon Mile 5" Poetry Contest Sponsored by: Mark Toney Written on June 3, 2021 Selected for FEATURED POEM On the front page of All Poetry, September 13, 2021 GOLD MEDAL WINNER "5 Golds or Less - Profanisaurus" Poetry Contest All Poetry, December 11, 2021 Appeared in "It's Still Poetry" Poetry Soup Anthology - 2021 CreateSpace, Amazon publication