The Numerous You

Poem and photo by Mike Aspros
The Portland Upside
September 2009

You are a Ginkgo leaf that knows its way; letting go,
you trust the ground to catch and hold.

A Swainson’s Thrush stomps dirt for a kernel,
with your weathered endurance of Bristlecone bark.

Like an elder Oak, in its stillness
with winter limbs, and bent elbows,
you embrace the helpless.

As the sun rouses geese from the reeds,
rejoicing, I love, I love, I love,

glowing on your face. People crowd around
and like a Marsh Wren’s outcry
they admire you.

_____

Mike Aspros is a native of Portland. In addition to writing poetry, he enjoys co-facilitating events within Linnton’s environmental group, and preserving Forest Park while building a community of forest stewardship.