By Ishmael von Heidrick-Barnes
Mount Woodson (Mountain of Moonlit Rocks)
When freeways flood
mind’s embankments
follow the scent of sagebrush
to higher ground
Up here sound is sight
shadows of clouds
thundering
down Mountain of Moonlit Rocks
open mouthed leaves:
Signs
inviting the rattled snake
to shed its skin
and remember its maiden name
Note: Mount Woodson in San Diego’s North County was called “Mountain of Moonlit Rocks” by Native Americans. The large granite boulders glow in the moonlight and are visible for miles thus contributing to the mountains original name.