Charm of the Wise Ones

from~ CRAFT OF THE WILD WITCH~

~Poppy Palin~

Black crow, turn back, hollow root,

Bare branch shiver to my reedy flute.

I ask for the wisdom of the long-dead mute,

I am calling to the Wise!

Wings beat time to the ghost owl's drum,

Foxes bark as their night-blood hums,

Wild is the darkness that we become,

I am calling to the Wise!

Grandmother, Grandfather, hear my plea,

Step through the bright mist and speak with me,

Bring me the blessings of the things you see,

From your realm beyond the stars.

For that which is lost and that which is found,

That which is rotting in the hallowed ground,

That which whispers yet makes no sound,

I am opening my heart.

By withered apple, by rich black loam,

May you bring me wisdom from your spirit home.