“Desert Sands At Council Wash”

Old man Juniper Green

crusted roots among rock and shale;

surrounded with white desert sands

offers presence and council.

 

Old women Ponderosa Pine

weathered and blackened by the fires of living.

Sweet smelling resin arising between the old story lines 

etched into her skin and memory.

 

Come and sit awhile. they say

We will tell you of the old ones;

help you remember your name

and where to put you feet next.

 

Kedar S. Brown, Vision Quest Ceremony in Capital Reef Utah May, 2017