My Grandfather taught me that the forest was like heaven.
The Plants and animals were to be shared: mountain and glen.
I remember the elk coming down to the meadow at sunset
To eat, drink, and play, yet with only minimal threat.
I remember the bear running past us near the dawn
And I remember the timidness of a doe with her fawn.
I remember the raccoons that raided our fridge for food.
I wonder if even he remembers that troublesome brood.
I remember the deep snow bank that swallowed me whole.
And him stoking the fire to warm me to my soul.
I wonder if he remembers when he took me to where a forest fire burned?
From seeing those scars, fire's awesome power I have learned.
I still remember the spring waters he gave me in my youth.
I have never tasted it's equal and that is the truth.
I remember every hill, spring, stream and tree
For my grandfather put a little of the forest in ME.