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Deborah Leipziger is an author, poet, and advisor on sustainability. Born in Brazil, Deborah’s poems have been published in nine countries in such magazines as Salamander, Revista Cardenal, and Inkwell. Her poetry collection Story & Bone was published by Lily Poetry Review Books. She is the author of several books on human rights and sustainability. She is currently working on a Lexicon of Change, which shares the vocabulary we need for social and environmental transformation.

Deborah Leipziger

Tell me, what are you most afraid of?

Tell me, and I will give you shade.
Yes, I know of the many ways to die.
Heat    Thirst    Flood    Lightning.
Why fear growing old?
I have witnessed your life.
There are so many ways to live.
Remember, you grow rich in many currencies:
Light    Generosity    Energy    Kindness.
Protect me and I will provide cover
Connected as we are by need and nearness.
I will cover the frozen ground with my leaves
And weave my branches of color over your darkness.
Come rest with me.

— Deborah Leipziger

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