These Woods

I know that snow will always fall
Upon that hill where coyotes call
And that their song will ever rise
Into the night where Frost-Mane flies
 
I know that deer with ancient grace
In blooming fields will leap and chase
And every spring, doe will bear fawn
As Shining-Mane delivers dawn

I know these woods will always heed 
The dreams of those who offer mead
To brooks that will forever flow
Down shady hills where pine trees grow

I know that when I hear Hel’s call
These woods will be my final hall
And through the trees my soul will stride
My Shadow ever at my side

Written by Joe Mandato, Vingolf Fellowship, 10/10/2002.