Spiritual Retreat

Daybreak comes

softly and slowly moving through the woods

yawning, as it's rays slowly stretch

reaching down, branch by branch

Branches that are encased in a glimmering frost

Daybreak comes

Crisp and cold with a cleanness in the air

awakening my mind and body with a rush

I look up and watch as the light chases away the dark

to bring a new brightness, a fresh day

Daybreak comes

knowing and understanding healing will continue today

surrounded by beauty no ugliness can mar

comfort no bruises can take away

surrounded, protected and comforted by the stillness

Daybreak comes

gently without force or shock, the fullness again of heart

carefully stepping out, into the light, bright

with all of my new and carefully mended scars

bracing, with FLEE in the front of my mind

Daybreak comes

with it, morning. I wait and give all that's around me thanks.

Praying that I will be ready again.

To stand and be strong again.

Aching for that part of me that is gone.

ald

Their heart and strength. Carrying us over icy waters, unending bogs, through brush so thick it's terrifying. Carrying unbelievable weights for us, so that we can have all the comforts. Tents, stoves, real dishes, real food; no backpackers food, just boil water and eat it in a bag. Packing the heavy weight of comforts so that we don't have to do without.  Climbing higher and higher to save us the steps.  Fighting through and over endless bogs.  Bulldozing, pushing past, squeezing through, breaking thick walls of willows and brush taller than a man seated in the saddle. Bringing us safely, without fail or delay, home in the black of night without moon or stars, through the shadows, the wind, the rain and snow.

ald

In our individual search to reach out to, come to know personally or to reconnect with our Higher Power and our own Spiritual growth, at times the world around us feels too close, nature and the glorious gifts we have been given, too far away. To be surrounded by the enormity of the world as far as you can see. Untouched, unspoiled, the raw beauty of this great land we call home. The immensity, the unbelievably endless space, here on earth, that enfolds us, the quiet.  And yet, the air itself can be heard as it breathes, alive. The stars are brighter than any city's lights. Being so completely alone and small; to feel so completely protected, nestled against and nurtured by something so powerful and immense.