The Old Ways

“The Old Ways”

Sitting with stone, 
Earth and oak

A canopy of birch
Above moss covered hallowed ground

A familiar scent
Sage burning
Smoke spiraling across my face

A mysterious rope
Weathered and lichen covered
Hanging from the out stretched arm of an Ancient oak

Seven feet from where I sit
Just seven feet...

Looped and knotted 
In the old ways of the Caledonia Highlands

A gentle wind
Quiet rhythmic movement
A ritual invocation 
From distant realm

Out of the west now
It swings in my direction
And asks me questions

How shall I reply?...

Written by ~Kedar S. Brown, Sept. 4, 2015

Inspired by a hike in the North West Highlands of Scotland. A true story.