Libby

The Village of Hicks
Timber Cutter, Ore Digger
Player with Cougars and Grizzly handler
Quiet, Content, Peaceful
Town of the Open-hearted
They tell me you are close-minded and I believe them, for I have seen
You cling to logging while it drags you to your death
And they tell me you are uncultured and I answer: Yes, it is true I have seen
Shakespeare slaughtered and buffoonery applauded.
And they tell me you are poverty-stricken and my reply is: On the faces of
Women and children I have seen wanton hunger.
And having answered so I turn once more to those who sneer at this,
My town, and I give them back their sneer and say to them:
Come and show me another city full of such charity and friendliness
In the midst of unemployment and poverty.
Safe to roam the streets and leave your door unlocked
Late into the dark of night
Living despite disaster and economic collapse
Continuing to exist.
Friendly,
Peaceful,
Beautiful,
Quiet,
Rising, falling, and rising again,
Under the asbestos, breathing through a mask, thriving amongst the pines
Joined with the bear, the deer, the eagle, laughing in the face of inevitable death.
Laughing the quiet, content peaceful laughter of youth, home again after along day
toiling in the sun, proud to be Timber Cutter, Ore Digger, Hicks, Player with Cougars and Handler of Grizzlies.