Analysis of Sandstone Etchings

I try to discern your obscure messages
as I marvel at your sturdy cliff dwellings,
sandstone etchings of your primeval world;
you wandered as hunters and gatherers,
coming to rest in your new earthly home,
called Mesa Verde, a solid tableland amidst
mystical, chaotic chasms of time and space.

I try to imagine your primordial lifestyles
plowing soil beneath your feet, scattering
the seeds of hopes, dreams, and aspirations
while you steadfastly prayed to your gods;
at the apex of your ancient civilization,
known to us now as your classical period,
you created useful, aesthetic cultural tools.

I try to envision you gazing heavenward,
with childlike wonder,
as you paused just for a moment
to contemplate eternal truths,
catching a glimpse of rare earthly beauty;
yet you did descend from celestial heights,
scattering your ashes into the vicissitudes
of time and space, and your own oblivion.