As the sun slowly begins its descent
over the fertile valley below
I fly free one last time
along the gentle evening currents
before the moon rises
bringing a close 
to this long, difficult day.

Alone in my thoughts I glide aimlessly
struggling to find meaning in pain
trying to flee what I don't understand.

Surveying all that's gone before me this day and others
I spot a wise elder owl who gives me a quiet wink
a lone timber wolf greets me with its haunting howl
and a scurrying jack rabbit pauses a moment
and I tip my great wing in silent respect.

Finally feeling more at peace within myself
I'm now able to hear the voice of the great spirit
"Tell me true, have you not enjoyed your journey,
have I not taken you to the mountaintops
where I have shown you breathtaking beauty
in the simple and the grand and where you've known 
pure joy and sweetness of true love and genuine friendship?"

Without hesitation I reply, "Yes you have."

"And have I not journeyed with you into the valleys of your life
and held you close and didn't I cry with you
and our tears merge to create healing waters
that would nourish all of life"?

With a peaceful and thankful heart 
I reply with a resounding "yes" and head for home
into the white light of the rising moon
not fully knowing the purpose of meaning of every sojourn
but finding contentment in accepting 
the importance we play each other's lives.

© Sharlie Mello