Deer’s Way

sometimes it’s best
to go the deer’s way
on soft ground
through the forest
with pine needles
under your heels

sometimes it’s best
not to look down
to let your body find
its own footing
to take the short steps
and shallow breaths
of an animal
listening

sometimes it’s best
like the deer
to rest in the meadow
on the high ridge
and let your heartbeat
ease down into sun
on green moss
before you start
the long trail home

(kz 2017)

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