An Ode to Bear 399
Long live the Matriarch
Yesterday, while driving along the wild coast of Washinton, I heard the news of the passing of Bear 399, our beloved and inspiring Queen of the Tetons, at the hand of an automobile. Oddly, I was also driving when I heard the news of Trump getting shot, which shocked me out of my stupor with anxiety, but this was an even more impactful gut punch.
Yes, she was old, and those here in the Tetons who can access the spirit realm around here say she chose this death, but uph, what a way to go.
Bears have always resonated with me; I consider them my spirit animal. Every encounter in the wild has been peaceful and profound. This poem was born in the spring of 2024, a season of rebirth after my father’s passing, when news of our revered matriarch, Bear 399, gracefully emerged from her winter slumber, the whole world watching to see how many cubs were at her side.
Awakening with 399
Across the silent meadow
spring sleet obscures &
protects you
from those who fear,
or simply wonder.
Emerging for the 28th time
I see you and awaken my 60-year-old self
for the first
or maybe always
no longer doubting my power.
Held down by hypocrisy,
restrained by our fathers expectations
or other's lustful thoughts, or
maybe just my insecurities
clouding my pure nature.
The dust on my mirror is not who I am,
but who I have become.
This spring, like you,
I emerge.
Gentle.
Proud.
Fierce when needed.
Quietly in search of sage buds,
buttercups, sweet pea & serenity;
we unearth all the essentials
to fully embrace
our dignity.
Thank you Sue for sharing. This makes me so sad:(. I plan on trying to tap into 399's strength as we face down the next couple of weeks to the Election. I hope I can be as fierce but graceful:). Sending love.