In a circle, we gather

hearing songs, the beat of drums

the rhythm of life, of our journeys, our fears–

the storyteller weaves his tale,

drawing us into his heart, 

into our own.

Finding our voices, finding the beat of our hearts,

we follow his lead, and go deep

inside, cleaning our wounds, 

chasing the pain away, becoming 

strong, becoming whole

again, for the first time in this life.

Young men offer the storyteller

gifts from their heart, from their ancestors,

eyes of all misting in gratitude at the ending of

suffering, the cleansing of darkened hearts–

In a circle, we become complete.

–Neal Lemery 5/20/2012