On An Ancient Trail

where it leads from
and where it leads to
on an ancient trail
narrow and true

footprint on hoofprint
paths worn and clear
evidence of Appalachian souls
who once passed by here

compacted in the sunken earth
stones smoothed from hike and climb
why did this ancient trail survive
on a remote divide after so much time

perhaps it was what wasn’t here
found on these high trails
knowing souls come to find peace
far from their own travails

i keep moving forward
along fields and split rail fence
following my heart to joy
this path life’s recompense

out on the trail less traveled
finally nearing its end
nourished by nature’s magic spell
i turn to walk it again

© Copyright 2016 Brooks Bradbury / BrooksLooks / All Rights Reserved