Concerning Knowledge and the Universe

 

And how do you know your friends?

You know the shapes of their faces

the curves of their limbs

their smell

the way they call to you

and the shine of their skin.

 

All this and their name.

 

And so too, you shall learn the flora

and fauna

and fungi

of your native land.

And when you step into the forest you will have thousands of friends to greet you.

 

For you are the universe and the universe is in you.

 

Step down into the dim woodsy rooms of soil and softly crunching leaves.

Notice the shadowy verdant shapes

shifting in quiet angular light.

Let your eyes adjust and greet your friends!

 

And beyond all that is growing on the earth

seek to know the names of the stars

and the creatures of the oceans

and the tiniest things you can’t see.

 

For you are the universe and the universe is in you.

 

And even beyond the oceans and the stars

you meditate with

and make friends with

the spirits of the night

so that when you arrive you will know their dark smiles

and flashing eyes.

 

And when we seek to know these things we will know ourselves.

 

For we are the universe and the universe is in us.

 

Poem by Merenda Cecelia

Art by Peter Sugarman