cvi.

this place, these people--chattering under the lights

leaning against the slats, 

the mountains to the left, thunderheads glowing on the snow

may all the spirits bless this place--

these bright children, these busy citizens

walking through the city, bustling down the freeway

down by the road--under the overpass

in the shade

the sun shine bright but not sharp, 

come down upon you through the branches

the mountains hold you, just under the sky

---

the fear came to you, and you did not know

but you live, though--you are living still

you don't need to fear, I will hold you

and my grasp will not fail you, and my grip

will not falter--

if I swing you forward--you carry me forward, 

and we will go, we will all go forward, 

together--across the line, 

not one less, and not one missing