the stony path, a twisted braid,

wound down from where the tall peaks stayed,

through sighing pines and dappled glade,

a journey for a heart unafraid.

୨୧

and there, beneath the forest's dome,

i saw a sight to make heart roam,

a breathing, bright and living poem,

that turned my play to wonder's home.

୨୧

upon a steed of fallen snow,

a lady let her reins hang low;

a pointèd hat her brow did show,

like figures from the tales i know.

୨୧

she smiled, and spoke a voice so clear:

"keep bright the dream you cherish here!

let not the world instill its fear,

nor bend your true intent, my dear."

୨୧

we parted with a waved salute,

my spirit taking steadfast root;

her words, a rare and golden fruit,

to grace my future's life pursuit.

୨୧