It was something to see
A sea of human wheat
Walking on the plains of Illinois.
Three million men and women
Moving at a quiet pace
Each absorbed in the wonder of it.
A year ago I fended and fretted
And fought for myself
Against everything.
Today I gladly tender
The paltry gift of my flesh
For the good of humankind
For all living things
For the earth, the universe
For the life of a child
Or a tree.