I hiked along a forest trail.
A cold stream was racing by.
Majestic firs shaded the way.
I was one with nature that day.

          As I climbed, I spotted a stag.
          Off the trail it was alone and proud.
          A snapping branch broke the silence.
          Alerted to danger, the deer was gone.

I felt ashamed for its sudden departure.
The friend of nature was lost in arrogant pride.
One careless footfall was all it took.

William Wayne Smith

From the archive

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Original image: Misty Stare. By Sue Cro [Image license]