Lost and Found

If you are lost in the forest do not look back
In anger or regret
Or trace the path that brought you here
Do not search
The horizon for familiar landmarks or the trees
For moss or other signs of North
Stop. Look around you.
The trees and bushes know what you will come to understand.
You are not lost.
The place you are is Here.

If you find yourself lost in the forest do not
Be anxious for the winter
Or build yourself a shelter against the coming rain
Be still. Listen. Hear.
The little bird that taps the deadened bark
The snake that rustles in the fallen leaves
And you will come to know what they already understand
The only time is Now

When you have found yourself lost in the forest
Do not debate
Shall I climb upward to the ridge to find a rock
Vistas of the land, the future and the far?
Or follow downward with the stream toward valleys
Rivers and the eternal sea?
Lie down and sleep.
The bushes and the bird will hear you breathe.
The stars look down with kindness.
A little cold, a little hunger will not harm you.

And in the morning when you rise
The answer is within you.