How I Go to the Woods

Ordinarily I go to the woods alone, with not a single
friend, for they are all smilers and talkers and therefore unsuitable. 

I don’t really want to be witnessed talking to the catbirds

or hugging the old black oak tree. 

I have my way of praying, as you no doubt have yours.

Besides, when I am alone I can become invisible. 

I can sit on the top of a dune as motionless as an uprise of weeds,
until the foxes run by unconcerned. 

I can hear the almost unhearable sound of the roses singing.

If you have ever gone to the woods with me, 

I must love you very much. 

How I Go to the Woods by Mary Oliver

via my girl Carolyn from LeBluegrass