I listen and watch

The words begin to fall

Out of Grandpa’s mouth

He breaks down the walls

The wisdom he shares

Moves mountains in me

These burdens I can’t bear

Like he can really see

He says we become good

At what we practice day by day

I share it with my students

And they take it as they may

These roots run deep

The lessons antique

Listening to the wise

Leaves us so much to keep

When they’re gone that’s it

Nothing left but memories

I want to hold and document

Each word my elders speak