Monday, September 12, 2011

How I go to the Woods




Ordinarily I go to the woods alone, with not a single
friend, for they are all smilers and talkers and therefore
unsuitable.

I don't really want to be witnessed talking to the catbirds
or hugging the old black oak tree.  I have my way of
praying, as you no doubt have yours.

Besides, when I am alone I can become invisible.  I can sit
on top of a dune as motionless as an uprise of weeds,
until the foxes run by unconcerned.  I can hear the almost
unhearable sound of the roses singing.

~~~

If you have ever gone to the woods with me, I must love
you very much.


Mary Oliver
photo:  Peter Bowers