Summer weds autumn on this dense
forest trail; white wood asters line the
bridal path, candelabras of goldenrods,
red maple leaves scattered like rose petals
along the path,  sun struck mica glittering,
wedding  jewels. Through the laurel arch,
past the birch and poplar stands, witnesses
bearing boutonnieres of purple turtle heads,
bouquets of white snake root; a scent of
decay nourishes life unseen; breezes stir
nature’s memory, recalling the Cherokee
partnered with the land, grateful for this
hallowed Black Mountain. The South Toe River,
faithfully moving to its Source, carries our
vows to come this way once again.