And when at last he gazed with weary eyes

upon the vast expanse

of verdant hills and valleys laced with streams

that seemed to dance,

his thoughts which just an instant prior

had swirled and boiled so,

were slowed and calmed at once as if a truth

at last was his to know.

The journey, long and hazardous and measured much too often

in degrees of fear and pain,

became a fading memory as the dust on granite rocks

is quickly washed clean by the rain.

A rumble of some distant rapids barely out of sight

sang to him in welcoming voice.

It whispered softly of  freedom’s promise

and  paid tribute to his choice.

And many times he doubted choices he had made;

to turn his back on rising sun

and cast his lot and very soul with westward wind.

But now at last he’d won.

Across the valley majestic bugles rang from Elk

proclaiming their intent to stay.

And with their call his heart swelled more

as at last had come this day.

An eagle walked on trails of air above majestic peaks.

Free to stay and free to roam

And following Eagle’s flight with shimmering eyes

He simply said “I’m home”.

Journey's End