rest now, wild one

rest now
wild one
you fought well
and brave


let me sponge your
open would with
comfrey balm
and comb your hair
free of twig and ash


rest now
wild one
let me wash your face
with chamomile
and knead your flesh
with scented oil


lie on the wolf skin
and let your animal eyes
close


I will watch for you
let your coiled muscle
slowly melt to soft


I will listen for you


rest now
wild one
rest


this day's battle is done
sip the drink
nourish lip and loin


rest now
brave one
restore your blood for battle




Beth McCarthy Marks
1993
dedicated to Marco Menato