Respite High

With wings outstretched,

currents carry Nature's eyes upward,

rising above meadowed Alpine flowering

across scree-scattered memories old,

soaring above storm and cloud,

coming to rest on season's memory-laden cover.

Beneath a talonlike grip

slants rusted sheets of shelter,

overhanging tin-sealed windows,

now but closed eyes,

once open to saber edged granite.

What secrets lay at rest

within its stone walls?

What flames of the soul

has this bouldered shield kept kindled?

What exhaustion of lungs

has her solid floor rested?

What whispered voices

have her passion embers kept conscious?

To some,

A rest stop in history.

To others,

An outpost of courage.

To all,

A rock-firm pause,

reminding those who pass,

eagles do soar,

just as legs do climb,

seeking but the calm,

the windless current

where melodic vision is unabated,

and chorused echoes spring infinite

where journey of mind

meets home of spirit.