New Shoots

by Lisa Fields

I am not a traveler—

my roots are loath

to leave their bed

disturb new shoots

that stretch

to drink the light

that falls                                    

at the angle of their need—

past places have no pull,

no call that plucks my cells

to turn my healing

back in time—

cruelties

impacts

press

and burn—

implore the deepest place

to speak,

expanding truth’s

bright breath—

until the scars

grow supple,

fading

as the buds

of my awakening

drink the light

I choose to see

trickled from the river’s hand

sparked

by the dry earth’s touch

* * * * *

Lisa Fields lives in Southwestern New Mexico. Writing poetry expresses her desire to be immersed in a state of balance. Her inspiration comes from the joy of wild places and the challenge to live happily in the domesticated world. She is a contract writer for Quirine Ketterings, Professor of Nutrient Management in Agricultural Systems, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY. In her home state of NY, Lisa served the farming community as an Extension educator for 10 years, and then worked for 10 years as a self-employed advisor.