The Forest Sanctuary

The sun’s rays filter down through

the forest canopy, morning light

dances through the branches

of sugar maples and American beeches.

Leaves rustle in the whispering breeze

as I step with quiet purpose,

pausing to notice the choral song

of black-capped chickadees echoing

in the wind as they flit about their day.

The murmur of the babbling

brook calls out to the weary

of heart, to those thirsty for revival,

its refreshing waters meandering

through this sacred woodland. It leads

to a colonnade of birch trees bowing

in reverence, their papery skin

exuding wisdom. Heavy-laden, I sink

to bended knee in full surrender.

The earthy aroma of the forest

floor mixes with the resinous

scent of pine, and my spirit surges

with relief, breathing in the divine

peace that Mother Nature promptly

provides. There is a tranquility

in this arboreal temple that transcends

human understanding; it is a balm

for the souls of the broken.