Emerald Isles

by Allison Rodenhouse

I have a few deeply beloved places where I like to go

to be with nature

in this concrete city. It might be hard to believe that tucked away

from the busy streets and bricks and mortar

are emerald isles ready to receive everyone who needs them.

They receive me,

each time I come to them

their sentinel beings, tall and reassuring

with their outstretched branches and deep knotty roots

welcoming

as if to say you’re home, come on in.

And their flowing waters, a life line to all beings

as if to say let the rhythms of my river join with the rhythms of your heart.

And carpets of green and brown and white

that beckon you to notice

through each season

this foundation, strong and sturdy

as if to say rest awhile, you have found ground

and your roots are welcomed here.

“Emerald Isles” is a Harvest Offering from Allison Rodenhouse, Oak Cohort. You can learn more about Allison and her guided forest therapy experiences in Chicago at Trees&Tranquility.