NEXT HILL

Whew, that was a rocky hill
and pretty steep along the way
so I'll take a rest right here until
the cool of evening comes my way.
.....This old stump will make a comfy seat.

From here I can not see the valley
where this long walk had first begun,
it's far too distant now to see
in the fading light of setting sun.
.....I've come so far on tired old feet.

All these hills along this ridge,
each one different yet the same,
some here and there spanned by a bridge;
most were abundant with wild game
......or muscadines dark blue and sweet.

I slowly stand at next hill's base
watching others fade into a cloud
then slowly resume my slow pace
with an exhalation long and loud
......listening to my old heart beat.