Bario

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BARIO

The day breaks so slow, like a question
that does not care to be asked
the mist diffuses, soft light refuses
the answers to which I've been tasked



From out of this drifting miasma
tree's rise and then disappear
it seems what I seek this morning is meek
the whole world is shrunk and unclear



Now slowly, with no explanation
the day deigns I may at last see
for what mist concealed is now given, revealed
and shines with a brash clarity



Around me unfettered abundance
cascades from the hills to my feet
in soft waves of green, the tree's pose and preen
like a shimmering emerald sheet



Whilst near me in Douglas' garden
the flowers are lightly bejewelled
from each hangs a pearl in which colours swirl
with rainbow's so perfectly pooled



In contrast to that which is captured
I'm shackled and tied to the sight
of the bird's that flit, spin, dive and sit
with a nervous, edgy delight



that's revealed in their jittery movements
embellished by staccato song
each tweet confirms, every note affirms
that to no one do they belong



And likewise the Kelabit people
so friendly and open and true
have not yet been caught, tempted or bought
though the offer is hardly that new



Besieged on all sides by the loggers
they stand like the mountains around
to mutely proclaim their right to remain
and live on their ancestors ground.

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