FEATURED: Verdant

by Edward L. Holmes II

VERDANT

Cool air finds my face as I fly

on fleet feet, deep into the discreet.

I believe in the strength of natural medicine.

And these feet are nature's pestles 

pounding out petrichor and plume of pine 

as I find healing in this emerald city. 

                    This is my escape.

Wooden monoliths observe my path—

silent sentinels amidst a symphony of life.

I am weak. I am allured by natural rhythm and song,

drawn deeper into cricket-laden thicket,

cicada serenade—

then 

caesura,

verdant floor and thistle, 

hoping this will lead me home.

I don't know how far I'll go.

            I can't turn around.

                    Please, don't make me turn around.

I would rather remain unfound and free,

unbound to be undivided 

in the pursuit of peace between these trees. Please, 

don't make me turn around

to where the foundation

beneath my feet

is cold concrete lining city streets.

This lonely verdant path is my peace.

EDWARD L. HOLMES II

Edward Holmes is a writer on a mission to spread hope into hearts through the written (and often spoken) word. He has written children's books, devotionals, and poetry collections. He shares new poems weekly through his podcast Life Lines. His writing is hopeful, humorous, and honest—all fueled by black coffee and dark chocolate. 

Edward has an affinity with practical theology and biblical apologetics, previously serving as an evangelist and youth minister for seven years in Missouri. He currently resides in Illinois with his wife and kids, living every day with three reasons to keep hope alive.

If you find him online, say "Hi!" He'd love to strike up a conversation with you. You can find him on Instagram @edwardlee_on_ig.