Fertile Ground
Rooted in Strength, Reaching for Sky

In the gentle embrace of earth,
my foundation runs deep below,
roots of history intertwine
with the steadfast strength of purpose,
every corner holding wisdom,
nurturing the essence of what has been,
anchoring me in the knowledge
as I push upward toward the light.
Above, the open sky beckons,
branches lifting toward the sun,
each moment a chance to flourish,
reaching for the vastness of dreams,
where hopes unfurl like petals,
inviting bright possibilities,
the courage to explore the untraveled,
to dance in the warmth of the unknown.
This balance shapes my path,
a blend of the grounded and the adventurous,
holding tight to roots that support me
while boldly seeking the winds that inspire.
I navigate the intricate play of life,
intertwined in the cycle of growth,
each step forward honoring the past,
each breath igniting new potential.
With every challenge faced, I rise,
gathering strength from the earth beneath,
visions of what can be sparking within,
a journey of both holding on and letting go,
the dance of existence flourishing
in the duality of earth and sky,
a testament to resilience and growth
in a world where I can both sink and soar.
About the Creator
Tim Carmichael
Tim is an Appalachian poet and cookbook author. He writes about rural life, family, and the places he grew up around. His poetry and essays have appeared in Bloodroot and Coal Dust, his latest book.
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Compelling and original writing
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The story invoked strong personal emotions
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Comments (4)
Roots and branches are so complex, we just need to hold on tight and believe
Your pacing here is phenomenal. I am slowly being taken through the story of your roots. I feel like I'm watching everything move and shoot up out of the ground toward the sun. Your word choices are grounded in ensuring the experience we have is one of vividness and perhaps, even gratitude. I appreciate how the poem suggests knowledge as light.
This shimmers with hope & strength! I love it! ☺️
Beautifully written. With every challenge may we all rise, and not shrink back ! 👏👏👏💖