Nature Lore

Would you learn of Nature And all her wisdom prove, Understand her secrets, Comprehend her love? Would you know the service Of rhythm and refrain? Walk with the diurnal sun And the tramping rain.

To reach her sanctuary Where inspiration dwells, Her morning revelations, Her twilight oracles, Your eyes must wear her sea-hues, Your cheek her seasons' tan, Your bearing the calm leisure Of her starry caravan.

Learn the swing of snowshoes, Time as time you must— The ax-stroke in the wood-lot, The hoof-beat in the dust, Dip and swing of paddle, Thrust of setting-pole. These will give you poise and flight, These will make you whole.

The waving grass shall show you The highway to her door. Every singing river Chants her enticing lore. Her twelve great winds come seeking To teach you line by line The harmonies of sense and soul In music of the pine.

They share great Nature's rapture Who tread her wilding trails, Her desert stars will guide them When every false flare fails. Her wondrous heart is never From wondering hearts estranged, And you shall find at journey's end Her smiling grace unchanged.