Take notice

Taken back
by the sweet smell of sage
as I lift one
double-socked hiking boot
in front of the other
stopping to examine flowers
speculate
but ultimately fail at identifying them

taken back
by speculative conversation
on which mountain or range
we see rising in the distance
passing the binoculars back and forth
like ancient, sacred wisdom

Yes, then I might not have noticed
the excitement in your voice
as you discuss your travels
and past hikes
or laughed at the way you
vocally appreciate a good, crisp apple

Taken back, I didn't notice.
But now I do.