The Land's Tapestry

Unfamiliar rays of a desert sun spurred waves of change,

For in stepping on new soil, I stepped into new shoes.

The vastness of the landscape was enveloping,

Promising for renewal in a newfound smallness I couldn't refuse.

The red dirt's scratchy embrace knew no bounds,

It was ready for us before we knew 'us'.

The land foretold what I needed from it long before we were acquainted,

Perspirating skin met cool winds with little fuss.

Desolate and somehow full, empty yet whole,

I became anchored in the paradox of this place.

Forever trapped in the confines of its expanse,

I felt my surroundings smile back at me, a vivid face.

Each native bird a messenger of the cries underfoot,

Each critter an extension of its hospitality.

Sewn-in threads of natural awe and presence,

Weaved into the sentience of this great land's tapestry.