Across The Fields

We used to walk across the fields
Down the slope and to the stream
We used to wake
Early and smell the dawn
But not now
Not any more.

The walks were languid,
Lilting, even in rain
And in those long, sun soaked summer
Days we’d walk at dawn, in light
Twilight
All day.

I don’t walk these days
I march.
The climb is steep and the hills
Seem harsh, the wind
Is keen
And my face is set
Every step beats out memories
I can’t forget those walks
Across the fields…