I enter the broken forest, slightly falling apart
the cool breeze brushes past my face.
The subtle dance of the woodland creatures
becomes a symphony as I walk deeper.

A tall gum tree, ancient and wise
Stands crumbling its story told
From a dark corner a figure appears,
a weary koala, in pain

His feet are wounded, his movement slow like a dream.
I ask, “Are you okay?”
He nods with a sigh,
“They took my home”
“By now, I’m used to the hurt”

With a soft nod, he lowers his head
and returns to his hidden sanctuary.
The silent forest embraces him,
the wind continues to sweep.