44

I have heard from the ancestors

who kept the fires going for us,

who lit lamps along the path

to show us the way.

I could feel alone and ill-fitting in

the ways of the world,

the news of my neighbors,

or follow others like sheep to the slaughter.

You know the secrets of my heart.

I rest my being in you.

I set my steps in the ways of the old ones

who found you

in streams, stars

and a passing cloud.

They tell me You are not asleep.