never no no was never an option. though circumstances all around restrained him. though authority diminished him. though fences and guns and threat did try. no was never an option. when distance beyond knowing was before him. when new language, custom, and science were upon him. when new family, new people, and new work came to him. no was never an option. if sickness and restraint weighed - he learned patience. if the future was unknown - he learned its new names. if the program was chaotic - he learned its discipline. his spirit is anchored in the hills and forest. his soul is now learning about yes.

for a friend who never stopped advancing because he prefers the view from the mountains.

1journey.net     jan 2004 elias