Simple Pleasures

[amd1953]

Today, I went for a walk in the winter sunshine.   I sat beside a fresh mountain spring and listened to the stories it had to tell.   The older I get the more I find pleasure in the very simple things that life has to offer.

I like to escape the noise and haste of the city and make my way up beyond the treeline where the light falls of snow are lying like coconut icing on a cake.   I stop to listen to the wind through the tree branches.  

It is like a quiet whisper that carries the wisdom of the ages.   I hear the birds singing but they stay well out of sight because I don't belong here.   Eventually, the trees end, and I can look down into the valley below to where the city spreads out like a sleeping snow leopard.   I meet up with the stream again and stand alone, quietly watching the fresh clean water cascade over the mossy rocks worn smooth by age.   What a magical place this is and what a privilege it is to experience the peace and solitude it provides.

amd1953

[Eagle Ray]

Dear amd1953,

I just wanted to say that was so beautiful to read. Thank you for sharing it. Finding those moments of connection with the elements of nature are so grounding and stilling. It is truly magical, as you say. I really feel there are stories to hear in running water too, and in the wind in the trees. I feel even rocks hold memories and stories.

Knowing it was going to be wild, woolly weather today, I made sure I got out for a walk yesterday. I walked to a large granite rock by the river where rivulets of water are running across it and patches of green moss are growing. The first wildflowers are appearing already. I watched a cormorant skimming over the river's surface. The Quacking Frogs were in full voice, calling from near the river's edge.

Today there has been dramatic sweeping rain, rumbling thunder and flickering lightning. It's nice to be cosy inside and see the drama unfold outside.

ER