This is a healing poem, a reflection on the healing power of nature and on how different natural substances can bring about powerful changes.

Touch Wood, She’d Say

 Touch wood, she'd say even
when no one expressed unfounded optimism.

Touch wood, she'd say
when sticking a plaster on a cut.

Touch wood, she'd say
when flares flashed.

Touch wood, she'd say
when edges were fraying.

Touch wood, she'd say
when walking through the nearby wood on Sundays.

Touch wood, she'd say
when running her fingertips up and down barks / rough and smooth.

Touch wood. she'd say
when wearing a T-shirt saying: I AM A TREE HUGGER.

I swear 
they spoke to her, 
told her wise tales and 
hugged her back.