Summer Solstice 2020

the world entire is a midsummer
and you will be there
spritelike, chasing the firefly lanterns.

they beckon you here,
and there;
there are few obstacles
to your inner grace.
you freely overlook the outer stones
and inner hedges.
yet fireflies hover close to the earth,
and fireflies are not gods.

the gleam of your wings
astonishes, but look:
remember to hammer their frames
on the anvil. is there any excuse
for failing to strengthen them?
sweet spirit, a little steel
will support your flight.

may your thoughts be canals,
your dreams be rivers,
your desires, roads.
weave your elfin path
through the August forests.

and when you are ready
for the eagle’s view,
may the strong deities
call council in your favor,
and find you proved yourself worthy
of their heights.