![[Image Description: Two MCC members taking a brief break; one is sitting on a rock, the other is standing nearby. They are both in their uniforms, looking out at the expansive, mountain view surrounding them.]](https://cdn.firespring.com/images/c3f85e97-43a9-4810-8081-e8e6338173d0.jpeg)
Working with MCC is both an adventure and a challenge. It is an uphill battle of constantly finding new ways to overcome and adapt. And though the experience is well worth the hardships faced, some days it can be difficult to find a sense of motivation. On those days when things are particularly challenging, it can be helpful to practice a change in perspective.
Walking into our fourth out of five hitches this season, everyone in the crew was feeling a bit drained. Cold and frosty mornings of willow gathering in Wyoming would quickly turn into hot and sweaty days. Though the work felt taxing at times, my crew and I found that a slight change in perspective was enough to keep our spirits high. Bondurant, Wyoming offered an incredible fall view that was easy to find inspiration in. In honor of this hitch, I have written a poem below that takes on a unique perspective of fall leaves as dragon scales.
Fall leaves (little dragon scales)
Little dragon scales glimmering
in the brush. They turn
over themselves. Flapping
in the breeze. Hanging
on the branches of
willow trees.
Green on one side.
Yellow on the other.
Over time, slowly
shifting colors.
Little dragon scales getting
cold, and turning red.
Losing their grip. Drifting
from willow branch to dirt bed.
Little dragon scales scattered
over forest floor, like autumn
carpet. The dragon
is sleeping, the willows are bare,
and the leaves are green no more.
