I Go Outside

I walk outside and feel
the breath of plants on my flesh.
I close my eyes, inhale
what they are giving me.
So hard to slow down
but I stay, and also recall
other gifts the Green Ones
gave to me today.

In my salad, the pecans
from specific trees that took
many years to produce
the seeds within their hard husk fruit.
And the red bell pepper
that came to my mouth
all plump and juicy
after months of growing
for me, exactly for me.

My oxygen, my nourishment –
isn’t that nearly everything? –
come from the Green Beings.
I’m still outside, feeling
my original support group,
the breath of plant kin on my skin.
What could be more vital
than exchanging breath?

Dear green elders
thank you for spinning light
into medicine and shelter
into food and grace,
for holding roots and rain.
I am here outside with you
making time to remember
you are keeping me alive.

©Susa Silvermarie 2026