There is something sacred in the deep, quiet wood.
There is an escape from this modern world.
Here, time is allowed to lapse at its own, unhurried pace.
“Act Now!” Order Today” “Don’t Miss Out!” ”While Supplies Last” “Limited Quantities Available”
Here are the same things that have been here for a thousand years, five thousand, who knows, a hundred thousand? Bedrock and stone. Moving waters. The same trees grow each hundred years, and the same nuts fall every autumn. The inchworm climbs over the moss the same way he has since the last glacial recession opened new inchworm territory.
“New!” “Improved” “The Latest!” “Just Released” “Grand Opening” “Coming Soon”
Looking down I see earth and dirt and sticks and humus and lichens and bugs and mushrooms.
The track of the White-tailed Deer, giant comic prints of the Wild Turkey, tiny footprints left by the passing field mice. Tracings of wings in the snow where a Barred Owl invited the mouse to lunch.
There is no concrete, no blacktop, no glass, no stainless steel, no copper wiring, no asphalt shingles.
“Whole-house Vinyl Siding Sale!” “Road Closed For Paving” “Custom Replacement Windows”
There is a ringing in the trees. It is the four billion year old wind, transiting my wood for the four billionth time, each passing as sweet as the last. There is a ringing in the air. It is the caw of the crow, the screech of the jay, the honking of Canada Geese waving goodbye for the ten thousandth year in a row. There is a ringing in my spirit, giving birth to the song in my heart.
“Four Lines Just $100” “New I-phone Model X Available Now!” “Download The App” ‘Unlimited Data”
A dog chases a squirrel. An autumn leaf falls to the forest floor. A Catbird calls.
A man walks.
And we are timeless in our serenity. We have loosed the bonds of modernity, however briefly.
Here, I linger.
Seek peace,
Paz
Comments on: "Here I Linger" (9)
A lot of people never or rarely spend time in places like this. They are missing a lot.
Hi Paz. Enjoy the weekend.
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I think of that often, Neil.
I consider myself exceedingly fortunate to live in such a place, where the wild woods are steps from my door.
When I post of these places to which I cleave, it is not only to share my reverence for them, but also to provide a glimpse to those that may never see such things.
Thanks for the note.
Paz
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Lovely thoughts and descriptions of serene experiences! This does create a real sense of being along for the walk and escaping for awhile.
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So glad you enjoyed it Leah, from one “woodsbody” to another!
Paz
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Love the pictures and your descriptions are so great! Makes me feel like I’m walking in those woods!
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Thank you Barbara.
Sharing the walk is indeed the intent.
Good to know there is some measure of success!
Paz
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Be still my heart-this moved me deeply. A walk in the woods is good for whatever ails you and trumps most things. Hallowed moments . . and nothing less.
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My thanks to you as always for your kind and inspiring words, Michele.
To quote a loyal friend: “We must tuck these moments away in our hearts.”
All my best to you, and may the warren enjoy a blessed Thanksgiving.
Scott
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Awwh- it is easy to be a loyal to someone like you. I hope your holiday is filled with blessings and beauty.
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