Keep the U.P. Wild

A poem by Amber Johnston, owner, Bodega; published with permission. Photo: Trap Hills in the Ottawa National Forest, Ontonagon Co., Michigan.

She crosses the bridge, as the air slightly changes.  

Not realizing this whole time, her lungs have been in cages.  

The crisp lake wind, breathes life into the moment.  

As she looks all around, for this life changing component. 
 
“Is it the space above my head?” she thought “Space for birds to freely fly?"  

"Maybe it’s the big, beautiful trees... maybe they’re the reason why.”  

Looking for an answer, for why she felt so good…  

She wandered around and made new friends, in this natural neighborhood. 
 
Bear and owls, fish swimming with the light.  

Somewhere deep down, she knew all of this felt right.  

Her mind was at peace and her body moved with ease…  

As worries fell away at the water, and her dreams danced on the breeze. 
 
“They must have done something different.” she said “They must have built something here."  

"For my body to feel so alive, and my mind to be so clear."  

"So what is their secret to this beautiful spot? I must discover the key…” 

That’s when she realized, while sitting next to herself… they just let nature be.