Sting

Barefoot through the hedgerow, slow and low,
Where tangled briars and sweet briars grow,
A sudden sharpness, bright and neat,
Ooh! That nettle got my barefoot sweet.

Smarting starts, a tiny fire,
Making painted ankles higher,
But search the ground where dock leaves spread,
Their cool green juice lowers pain instead.

So next time walking, eyes downcast,
Remember sting can make you fast
To learn where healing bargains lie—
A leaf’s soft touch beneath the sky.