O YOU ANCIENT ONES

O you ancient ones,
teach me how to dance.
From you I would learn to live,
I would learn to love,
I would learn to find my path upon the Earth.
Give me your gifts of wisdom.
Whales, take me deep into the ocean's mysteries
to the place where the waves begin.
Eagles, let me soar with you
as you embrace the sky,
show me how to grip the craggy mountains.
O Trees, I would learn your leafy chorus           
and your peaceful solitude.
You morning larks,
teach me how to praise the Creator
with such joyful songs.
Wind and Sun,
put your passion into my heart.

And when the time comes,
you ancient ones can teach me how to die.
Stones of the river, make me weep
with your stories of suffering.