Another Way

How do I tell you
there’s an easier way?
I try to lead by example —
here! over here! —
but you can’t see the
forest through
the trees you’ve planted
around yourself.

They’ve grown up strong —
like you —
with roots so thick
you keep tripping over them,
thinking that is how
it’s supposed to be.

But what if I told you
there’s a path
where the roots go deep
and suck from a rich
and fertile mother
as she holds you up

with love —

would you walk that way instead?

• • •

Photo and words ©2013, Jen Payne