Ponder




This morning I woke early. I ventured out into the cool morning, taking in birdsong and the sweet smell of fresh air. I stepped barefoot on to the lawn, noting the gentle prickle of the blades of grass, supported by a cushioning moss beneath my feet.

I hiked over the hill to a nearby pond, the muscles in my legs unused to the slope, making me aware of the effort. I took my time and absorbed the sound of the wind in the trees. As I approached the pond, I saw I wasn’t the only one enjoying the breeze. Hawks were riding its currents far above. The water rippled under its force, catching the dawn light and scattering it about.

The layered shades of grey in the sky were shifting, moving and recreating themselves moment by moment. Behind the foothills, the sun climbed, trying to make itself seen. A bright patch of sky promised another day. I didn’t see the sun itself. The clouds won that contest and as I finished my yoga with a bit of meditation, a sprinkle of rain fell, dropping gently, one bead of water at time on my face and into the water around me.

I reflected on peace and solitude and the connectedness of all things held in balance. I thought how well and strong I felt, nourished by nature and now better equipped to go out into the world. How strange and wonderful that an extrovert like me, focusing my life on communities and connectedness can be strengthened by solitude.

In some inexplicable way attending to the ripples in the water strengthens my awareness of ripples in community. Smiling in joy at the unexpected jump of a fish reminds me to celebrate the unexpected in relationships. The contest between the warm sun and the rainclouds is not unlike the currents of connection, some welcome, some chilling, but each a vital part of who we are and who we are becoming.

It is a reminder to take time for peace and self. To take time to ponder.

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