Slipping into my meditation, Anxiety tight in my chest, Depression in the periphery Waiting patiently for her turn, I ask: "What do I need?" "Connection." Comes the answer. I send my roots down, deep Into loamy Earth, Into the Mycelial web That connects root to root Plant to plant Tree to tree Pain to love Grief to joy. Incense smoke begins to rise In gentle spirals, Expands into shiitake caps, Playfully dances into gentle hearts Infinities Sacred healing symbols Reminding me