Woodland Spirit

This clearing was used by the Rideau Lakes Mississauga,
of the Ojibwe or Anishinaabe nation, for traditional
Sun Dance and other ceremonies.



Woodland Spirit


Along a woodland path I strolled
of natures beauty I extolled:
The dappled trail, a great horned owl,
infrequently, a gray wolf's howl.

The gentle, scented lake-side breeze
had fully put me at my ease.
The midnight hour had come and gone.
Toward a clearing I was drawn.

Why I went I'll never know.
It was my destiny to go.
The Harvest Moon with mystic light
revealed an otherworldly sight.

A shimmering appeared, it seemed,
or, perhaps, I'd only dreamed.
I knelt in supplication to
a spirit who appeared in view.

In beauty, purity and grace,
with love-light shining from her face,
a halo, waves of raven hair.
I was in awe to see her there.

I kissed her hand and softly prayed.
The orchestra of nature played.
The scent of cedar on her skin
enveloped me with warmth within.

The blessing of her touch sublime,
in harmony our souls entwined.
A world apart, together now --
no question as to where or how.

Conversation through the night.
Her wisdom helped me see the light.
In times of need, like little birds,
they come to me, her precious words.

To me her message was of love
for man, for nature, God above.
To let me love beyond my fear.
To live in balance through the year.

Awakened at the break of dawn
I found the spirit to be gone.
Perhaps a dream -- and then I found
a ring of stones upon the ground.

I sometimes feel her doeskin dress
against my arm -- a sweet caress.
Her poetic gifts and love and grace,
soothe my heart, my soul embrace.

Notes: The stones represent: Learning, Respect, Acceptance, Spiritual Sight, Listening, Speaking, Love, Service, Relationship, Creativity, Dynamic Spirituality and Gratitude.

Sharing the Wisdom
by Kenneth "Bear Hawk" Cohen
http://www.sacredearthcircle.com/sacred_earth/articles.html

31 August 2010: Awarded Honorable Mention in the 69th Traditional Poetry Contest
Thanks Monty