I spoke into the silence
of an ancient winter wind –
I gave of every secret
willingly
assured of her allegiance
far beyond my dismal days
– would gather
me across eternity

names I have surrendered
the taste of memory –
remnants of a language
once I knew
making my confession
to an everlasting love
– endearing me to places
wild and true

I wonder where she whispers
to the mountains
to the shore –
with graces not so different
from my own
a valley grown with purple sage –
a garden’s rich perfume
– carries me to places
I belong

. . .