Backpacking the Wild

Single file
one by one
I watch
from atop
this slab of rock
passing by, silently
up………….this winding trail
a trial of suffering
pausing……………..

To lean over, to lighten
 the load
relieve the burden
on their bent backs

Stepping, that slow
methodical
drumming of the feet
the ancient cadence
of step

Pausing……….for
breath
smirking at death
moving upward……….
and so , ……..I to
pause.....................

to watch, to reflect
in this place
of wind and rocks and trees
so far away
yet, where ......I    seem
 to belong
with these ones
of ancient ,steps
in this barren, wild landscape
into this wilderness of the
wilds ,of the heart
Snassano 08-08-08