Jóhonaa\'éí Daaztsą´
Sepia shadow
moves soft and warm
enfolds the silent EarthCreatures small and large stand still
in Nature's breathless hushTłéhonaa' éí conceals the lovers touch—
longing met in full.Life's pendulum ends mid-swing and waits
for the lingering embrace
to slip awayinto a moment of grace.
Light opens its hand to the land
againTravails pass to the past
Hope swells.
Beauty is born
anew
Author's note: In the Navajo tradition, Ałneʼííʼáázh (Eclipse) is a solemn celestial event. The sun dies. Old missteps are corrected. These are moments of reverence for the Navajo People. The eclipse is not to be gazed upon. Traditional Navajos stay indoors and engage in quiet reflection. They do not eat or drink. They do not engage in activities. Prayers of thankfulness are offered when the sun emerges.
