I am Green
by Warren Hartung
Happy Valley, OR
I am green,
I was born so
Within the womb of Oregon,
Not so special, really
But unique enough
To know my heritage
My Oregon is a part of me…
Yes, I have traveled,
And lived in other places
But never was at home
Until I found my way
Back down the throat
Of this vast and lush river gorge
And felt her closing in around me…
Saw the wind swept might
Of the Columbia,
And felt the coolness
Of tall green conifers
Comfort me,
Felt the tribal tears
For days long lost,
And held open my heart
To those who have
Traveled before me,
Yet always returning here
Always returning home…
