I wrote this poem because I love nature, not just flowers, but the beauty of it all, and what it does to me.

When I was very little, I noticed when I was outside observing, I would make little or no noise. My soul quieted. I slowed down and listened. Everything else faded away. I stood or sat and listened, listened to the birds, the trees, the sounds of planes overhead or cars driving by. People talking, and me watching people. Then, all of a sudden, I was alone with myself. Not a care in the world.

I found this peace, this peace, ‘this thing’ that used to, and still does, come over me. Relaxing into that moment of stillness, I forgot everything. I simply was, existing in the here and now, happily observing in the moment, joyously free.

Now that I’m writing this, I can tell you my breathing quiets. I feel this soothing sensation consoling me. All my anxiety and tension dissolve while sitting, watching, only to be.

Back one spring day in the 1970s, I put this experience into these words.

Spring Delights

Oh, how lovely spring’s time is,
Flowers blooming,
Sycamore trees swaying,
Shades of light splattering the sky

So I sit and ponder,
Seeking nature’s unique sanctuary.

Butterfly wings, and crawly things,
Birds that fly far, far away.

But you know what?
If I could choose anything…
I would choose to be
Spring delight!

You can order my poetry collection, including this poem, here: Reflections of My Heart.

Original text ©2024 by Karen Lynn-Chlup. All rights reserved. Image by Ann Burgess via Wikimedia.