Paddling back to camp from the small island
after the heat stroke and the disappointment
had subsided; the others gone on to see
the bald eagle's nest a portage and lake away,
we came upon a deer standing alone
in the marsh grass along the near shore,
so close we could almost touch it---
a magician's gift in the yellow light of
afternoon. We froze on an in-breath,
raised our paddles slowly---
slowly
and with exquisite care
from the clear green water,
as though the air itself was fragile,
and any sound or movement
would tear us from the moment.
The deer remained unmoving, gazing at us
in what seemed equal fascination:
wilderness creatures,
breathing together
in rhythm.

-Linda Lee Albert

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Meredith Jordan,