It’s raining lightly,
always a good time to pull on comfy boots
settle your favourite hat just so,
and go for a walk in the woods.
The damp pungent smells
Will make you realize how it feels
Just to breathe.
Silence will envelop you
and each curve of the path
settles you
exactly where you are
not there yet
but not going back either.
All the chatter and thoughts
that swirl in your head
and aren’t much use
will somehow disappear
leaving you alone and content
to cheer yourself on.
“Good job – feet”
“ah, the legs feel strong.”
It’s dark in there,
but the more you look
the more you will feel.
The more you see
the less you will need
labels or words.
Listen to your breath,
to the raven sentry
the chittering squirrel
small rustles,
the rain and wind high above,
to your steady footsteps
on the brown and yellow
and crimson leaves.
The clouds may part to allow a brief shaft
of western light,
a reminder of your direction,
and that it’s time to head home.
You’re probably smiling,
feeling so blessed
to be there,
walking in the woods,
in the rain.
Photograph © Janice Henshaw 2014