Stone skiing

without poles or sticks

up Bear Canyon on Comb Ridge

the rocks a hefty

45 degree angle

and I with you

always and only at this acute angle,

and our dogs of course.

Whoever thinks that

rock and stone and junipers are not

sentient or thoughtful

not guiding

not aiding

does not get out enough, here.

Roethke knew

Great Nature

has another thing

to do to you and me, so lovely

learn by going where

you have to go

and where body and

spirit soul wants to lead you

until Great Nature lays us in her lap forever

and always

among the rock and stone and junipers.

Stephanie Moran

Durango