A tiny spark can start a fire,
an all-consuming orange blaze.
so many victims, few survivors:
blackened trees and smoky haze.

But though the grass has disappeared,
flames can't turn that dirt to stone.
Sift the ashes through your fingers,
and find the Earthmother in the loam.

and while a grove is dearly precious,
and such destruction warranting concern,
place your life in only the physical,
and yes, one day, you will get burned.

-N

Penned by my hand on the 21st of Phaestian, in the year 259 AF.