Dandelions

In the summer I realized my imaginings were fantastical enough that they might never be realized. I was walking down the scenic path, scruffing my sneakers and internally railing at the beautiful flowers that lined the entire section of this part of farmland. 

It was too pretty, and I was too alone. It was something in the gentle caress of the wind that brought it home for me. I wanted more, so much more but I’d have to leave the land to get it. 

I just didn’t see that happening. 

I took this path often, my morning and evening contemplations drifting in and out like the wind and the shadows cast by the sun. 

There was only so much else to do in this place where the beauty and lushness of nature punctuated everything. I could manage nothing but gratefulness. 

In a single pinpoint of time, I could see myself, grey hair down my back, sneakers alot more worn, beads around my wrinkled wrist… walking down this same path. 

I sighed then, looking up at the sun, eyes closed in contemplation. I suppose I could suffer here just fine – blinding beauty, fresh air, and an abundance of nature. 

My old bones would settle into the earth in death, like they had never been separate from it. I didn’t prolong the pause. I resumed walking. 

Maybe –  maybe now was just for making memories. My unknown future called to me. The known path – the known path was a nudge I chose to not acknowledge for what it was. 

I needed the balance. Sometimes, I just didn’t want to feel the scary weight of all the rest. Sometimes, I walked this known path, and I went home, had hot cacao, and watched the sunset across the lake. 

I suppose I could suffer here just fine – blinding beauty, fresh air, and an abundance of nature.

                                                                                                                                                        – Arekahs