​Desert Life
 
It’s rough out here.
Rock, dirt, coyote, javelina 
tracks near the fire.
​
People make what they need,
the land takes what it can.
A little water, deep roots take you far.

Yet, darkness is forgiving. 
Travelers are drawn to
go out at night here.
​
Come, lie on your back.
Breathe in the starlight --
It’s what we’re made of.

Finite scars beneath us,
infinite stars overhead.
Nothing telling us to choose.
​
© Vonda Witley  2025