Herbal Poetry: The Traveler

The Traveler

 

The weary traveler enters the store

Scanning the area, he slowly moves away from the door

He had traveled far, weathered skin a rustic hue

His scent was earthy as wildflowers shimmering with drops of dew

Slung across his shoulder was a mud caked knapsack

Filled with mountain mint and mushrooms. Stray leaves clinging to his back

He receives shocked stares and glares of disdain

Who was this wildling they whisper, smelling of dirt and rain?

The stares trouble him none for he was accustomed to them

He passed a gray-haired lady and a young woman who appears to be straight from the gym

He settles on an aisle cluttered with sun dried fruit and seeds

Someone gawks as they pass and gave an intentional sneeze

The Traveler grabs packs of lavender, elderberry, and lemon balm

His dusty hands tremble, though he feels a sense of calm

Somewhere far away he knows he will find a place to rest his weary feet

Where the brilliant sun light, the woods, and wild things meet

Surprisingly he pays for his purchase with a small, crumpled wad of cash

The store owner is curious and could not help but ask

Do you live out there, sir? He places the change in the Travelers hand

To this he replies…I’m sewing seeds in the earth since I live off the land 

 

KA