As I embarked on life’s journey, bright, young, and strong; I did so willingly and enthusiastically; traveling many roads, some with twists and turns, others over mountaintops and through valleys, and I did so eagerly; looking ahead anxiously to the adventures that lay in store for me around the next curve, or over the next bridge; never giving heed that, like all roads, mine must end somewhere.
I’ve seen days of bright sunshine and others of rain and fog, days of love and lost love; days when I walked in the company of others, and times when I could only wish for the company of others.
There were days when the wind was at my back; and days when I tried my best to shield myself from the onslaught of trials and storms; those that seemed to arise from out of nowhere.
There were days of wandering down dirt roads; where the sight of wildflowers in bloom across the open fields seemed heavenly; lifting my spirits to heights unknown. Allowing me to bathe in their scent as if it were an astringent, washing the accumulated dirt of the many miles traveled from my life. And there were miles where I prayed for just the scent of a single flower.
On this journey, I have admired many people and things. But the wildflowers always held my attention, as I watched while the young, bright, and strong stood up to the winds and weather. While others slowly, over time, fought to keep their petals from falling; but one by one, each wafted slowly one way and then the other until they hit the ground. Their struggle over, their journey finished.
I’ve slowed my stride now as the road ahead seems to be narrowing to a well-worn single path; one where the trees form a multi-colored canopy over my way, shielding me from the light of the sun. As I continue on my journey, I see that it once again lightens; up there, just around the corner.
Hearing the once bristling canopy now growing silent overhead and noticing the musky scent of decaying leaves; I sense I am coming through the fall of my life; and like the flower, I too will one day find the end of the road.
Well said. It is often said that if we knew then, what we know now, our lives may have been different; but I don’t believe we would have the same appreciation or gratitude for life, that we’ve come to know.
Thank you for reading this, friend.
Mike, I love this one my friend.! Strong Ink!
Thank you very much, it means a lot to have a seasoned writer, such as yourself, appreciate my words.
I understand how some things, persons, songs, or art seem to follow us along the road. How one day the road is full of those comforts and other days, you mourn their presence. I’ve been doing a lot of contemplating about that road and the inevitable end of it. My thoughts center on reigning in my “someday” fantasies and living more in the world of “today.” Relishing what I’ve done, how I will continue with those strengths, while gently letting go of ruminations of future “maybes.” Now is the time to slow down and pay attention to what we passed in a rush when we were younger. The light is bright here in the present.