Mohegan Poem by Paul Clement Czaja

Just for today
I shall be a free spirit
in the pure virgin forest
of this here and now.
I run free
weaving through the trees on moccasin covered feet -
my shoulders brushing
against the hard green leaves of mountain laurel -
my eyes bright and alert -
my heart pounding within my naked breast -
the air rushing past my face cool and scented -
my long hair flying.
I sense everything before me.
I am Hawkeye.
I will find you wherever you are -
captive of Magua the serpent
who has no heart
and is the father of lies.
I see the truth in the trail -
and I am close - getting near.
Not far behind me runs
the Father of my wisdom.
He comes fast to kill Magua
when the chase is done.
I clobber each painted devil I meet
blocking my way to you.
I do not stop or look back.
There is only this now before my burning eyes
until I find you
and take you here into my arms
rescued.