i hiked up a trail i knew nothing about
so many switch backs i lost count
i ran out of water but continued on
until by chance
a mountain spring was found
with spirits renewed
i left the old giant trees
and up onto a ridge
with warm sun and a breeze
I reached the crest
I was in awe of the sight
a cirque lake surrounded
by cliffs of massive height
as i paused and admired
the beauty of the natural world
a snap of a branch
drew my attention above
in a blur of motion
on wide outstretched wings
a brown eagle of such size
as i had never seen
the tree under which I stopped
had been his perch
my purpose unknown
it left with a lurch
the short journey
glided with ease
to the far side of the lake
to another cliff side tree