Look at you!
Californian Redwood swayingin autumn gail,
spiderweb holding the small drops of everything,
waterfall thawing from the ice of your ancestors.
Listen to that babble and gurgle, the splash freshening those around you, mineral.

How I wish to hear the beat of your drum, to call us into being, call to stop and be still.
You, leopard-woman, mantis- limbed, soft skinned, bright eyed, hands like starfish.
You, velvet- voice, warrior- call, you, peddler of play, arms wrapping like orangutan.
How we need you your mind like a well, like a gold hunters sieve, mind like a tuning fork.
Maker of beautyHolder of the darkCarrier of lanterns
Cupping what we think cannot be borne in your palms like hot coals,showing us how we can bear it.
May we bestow what is warm
and nourishing into your lap,your mouth, just as you nourish us.

What should our offerings be?music poured into your ears,stews and puddings,wine brewed with spices,
all that tastes warm and red, all that tastes like heart, beats on the tongue like a drum.
None of us want your fire to go out.We prefer you burning – even gently – whether as tealight, fire pit or forest. Please stay lit.We can all see better when you are.

—Jasmine