The Guardian

On a remote hill

high above the sea

lies the body of a man 

sunk in eternal slumber    


Walk softly as you pass by 

do not disturb his solitary soul 

that lingers there to watch 

over his perished form    


Though weeds blanket

his earthly grave           

wildflowers bloom 

in bright profusion

and birdsong 

softens the desolation


A single bristlecone pine 

stands as a faithful guardian

enduring through the ages 

while the mountain 

slowly wears away


By Shih-Fang Wang

From: United States