Reindeer Presence

by Mario Milosevic

Some say you guide Santa's sled

across the dark expanse.

But you are the true shamans

of the north, pulling our spirits

behind you across the frigid plains.

We follow your clicking heels,

your hot breath clouding

the sky and leading the way.

We see your antlers sprout

and fall each season,

like the northern sun,

every rising and setting

marking half a year.

Reindeer, you are keepers of time,

your souls always moving.

You eat lichen and moss,

swallowing the magic of the Earth.

You know nothing of us

but we see your other-worldly ways,

and we know your wild heart

is the only gift we ever need.