I kept an eye out as she discovered the forest for the first time. Not too far, I shouted as she danced in the tall grass. She was singing a song I didn't recognize; it was soft and meaningful to her. I caught up, and she handed me some wildflowers she had just picked, telling me it was the scent of her grandmother and I should remember it. She moved through the forest as if she knew every path, cliff, cave, and lookout point, where you can see for miles. We sat on a fallen tree and had a sandwich in silence. Today was her day of discovery; if she chose to share with me, she would. I had never seen her so happy here with her ancestors who hunted this land and now rest beneath it. She broke her silence and softly asked me if I believed the spirits were all around her, watching and protecting her. I told her this is sacred ground and that she was always welcome as long as she showed the respect our elders demanded. Over the years, we had many walks into the forests where she seemed happy to be among the trees and the animals who grew to recognize her walk, her scent, and the softness of her songs learned so many seasons before.
Mike 2024
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