The Paper Trail

 
I put the plastic wrapper in my pocket
I put the empty bottle back in my bag
I screwed the tinfoil my sandwiches were in
Screwed it into a ball and put it in my bag
I took my chewing gum out and put it in the bag
I took the paper I was using into my bag
You’re probably wondering, ‘So what!’

But this stuff is important
There was a time when I really didn’t care
No respect for the country side or woods
I would abandon picnic left-overs including
Wrappers, bags, cans, paper plates and bottles
Camp fire debris, disposable barbecues
I loved the beautiful scenery and all but
I did not or could not see it as a living entity

These days in the forest have connect me
To something special I’d even say magical
A wood or forest is a living breathing thing
It speaks volumes of peace and tranquillity
You actually get to really love the forest
And once you truly connect to its beauty
Once you feel its heart and soul moving
Your mind will not allow you to disrespect it

As a mark of respect, today, I took my rubbish home
I was about to throw my papers on the ground
And I heard a voice say why would you do that
I felt a twinge of guilt and a tender correction
When I thought about it all, what I did should be natural
You wouldn’t empty your trash cans on your
On your daughters front lawn would you

We all need to become one with nature
It’s the way we all used to be
The way we were meant to be
It is part of us
And we are part of it
Do what’s right
Out of respect
It is so easy

Here endeth the lesson