They are the miraculous result of century upon century of
shifting tectonic plates
from heated eruptions
The mountains call me
I listen
I will go to them, climb them, seek shelter from them, honor them
I will absorb their wisdom as I have so gratefully drawn upon
the wisdom of the pines—
my lifelong protectors
Perhaps it is my older and wiser state that calls me to their majesty
Perhaps I am called
to the foundation of creation
as I come nearer the time
I will be released
unencumbered
into the harmonious flow of the heavens
I wait with an open heart

Tricia Schwaba 2024