Cindy Rinne
Bear Goddess

My pilgrimage begins below the crescent moon.
I feel lost surrounded by the eyelids of dark trees.

Enter cave rooms. A bat darts. I scream.
Skulls and bones of bears neatly arranged.

Candlelight flickers. I place a bowl of peaches
and oranges. Then dip my hands in brackish

waters to sprinkle upon my offering. Call
upon Artio to unleash my insecurities and

bring abundance. While my lips part, I hear
ancient Celtic songs. Self-doubt erased—

ring of flames appears around my head
dancing ancestors joined by the goddess.