There was a rhythm to her raking.
Whoosh.
Whoosh.
Whoosh.
Then, a bigger WHOOSH
as damp leaves were tossed onto plastic tarp.
Whoosh.
Whoosh.
Whoosh.
WHOOSH.
Again
and again
and again.
As Raker surrendered to the meditative motion,
a question formed:
“Wise Trees, what are you teaching me this season?”
In autumns past, the message was always clear:
“Let go.”
“Let go.”
“Let go some more.”
This time, Bright Sun sparkled
and Joyful Wind played with tarp
but Wise Trees remained silent.
Whoosh.
Whoosh.
Whoosh.
WHOOSH.
Whoosh.
Whoosh.
Whoosh.
WHOOSH.
Again
and again
and again.
Finally, Flaming Maple uttered a single word:
“Gather.”
“Gather?” Raker asked.
“Yes, gather.
Gather our colorful leaves.
Move them into growing piles that line the street
like diverse ralliers who travel
by foot, car and train
to join the movement
to say no
to racism
violence
and domination
in our cities and country.
Leaf by leaf
person by person
gather
to support
and energize one another.
Allow the peaceful movement to grow.
We stand with you.
Gather.”
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