Peace

     The first week back from an extended camp always requires some acclimatization.  Life just seems somehow...simpler...out there, in spite of all the modern conveniences at home.  This past week was no exception.  In addition to the standard adjustments and the chaos of being back to work after a week away, were the tragic losses that two families I love dearly have faced.  It has been a week that has made me crave the peace of the wilderness yet again.  And so, an extra post.  To remind myself of what is out there waiting for my return.  To focus on the peace and tranquility of the forest and find it again in myself. And to remember the enjoyable parts of camp, not just the annoyance of the mosquitoes.

     With that in mind, here a few photos, and a poem I wrote when I first rediscovered the peace that is held within the woods.  I hope you find peace in it as well.

Peace.
Stillness.
Sanctuary.
Silence,
but for the rustle of the leaves under her feet
and the call of an occasional bird.
A forgotten love revisited. 
Her mind joins the wilderness in its quiet. 
Only here does it rest. 
All of life's struggles fade.
Away from the noise, the chaos, the stress.
A flock of geese flies low overhead. 
She pauses, listening with amazement
as she hears the beat of every wing. 
How could she have forgotten the beauty,
the absolute bliss,
of time spent with nature?
She smiles,
happy to be back where she belongs.
She bonds once more with the earth below her,
the trees around her, and the sky above her.
She is at peace.

BG