the ravine back lit
trees shimmer
in the cold

At sunset, using a sturdy tree branch as a walking stick, I navigate over roots and small rocks, up and down the many uneven areas on the path. Our group is headed towards a meadow to watch the moon rise.

reaching
into the woods
the long fingers of night

With flashlights off, our eyes gradually adjust to the darkness. Trunks and branches seen as if through a filter. Not inky black, but smoky black. Last year's leaves, bleached of color, send up a low light.

stumbling in the dark
support from
an unseen hand

We arrive at our destination and wait.

full orange moon
instinctively
reaching up