Serenity

A scent is wafting on

The winds of my mind,

Faint and distant:

Memories of a sun-filled

Summer day long past.

Silver colored lichen rocks,

Clear tumbling streams,

And I in the middle,

In the company of

My thoughts.

Elation buoys me in

The purity of all

Elements surrounding me.

God shows His face in

Every perfect part.

I am at rest in

The serenity of

His arms and

I am assured of

His presence

Hal C. Clark

Summer 2007

I love sitting out on a pleasant summer day, soaking in nature through all my senses, being free of all man-made noises and objects. I have had only one true solo experience, high in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, hearing no human sounds, seeing no man-made structures. It is an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I couldn’t bring myself to write anything about that trip, but this poem was written sitting beside the Poudre River, sitting near a group of pines, soaking up the warmth of the sunshine.

Some people feel the need to be around others at all times, but my heaven is blissfully peaceful and quiet. I like to exist only as an observer and see nature as if I weren’t there, as if I had no effect on my surroundings. Impossible? Sure, but I can dream, can’t I?

I am thankful there are still a few natural areas around the United States. I hope and pray we can save a few for my grandkids in case they, like me, look for serenity.