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