Secret whisperings here and there,
Hidden, murmuring springs,
O forest, O forest, consecrated place,
Let me listen in bough and foliage
To life’s most pure word!

And when I walk out into the forest,
I am greeted by the trees,
You fair, unfettered house of God,
You enfold me with your howling storm
In your cool spaces!

All that surrounds and whispers round me,
I shall faithfully preserve,
And all that oppresses my heart
I shall, elated by the spirit of love,
Express in song!

Richard Stokes Copyright 2005