RIVER BANKS

RIVER BANKS

I took a walk this afternoon

Down where the river flows

I watched the grey waters

And saw where the wild weed grows.

I viewed the swollen river

And the ducks as they glided by

I sat on the bank by the reeds

And I heard the river sigh.

The sky was heavy laden

No sun to warm the air,

I heard the river murmur

As she passed without a care.

A pewter sky above me 

Wet grass beneath my feet,

My heart was filled with emotion

As I quietly took a seat.

I was sheltered by a gum tree

Whose age I could not tell

Magestic eucalypt beauty

I know it oh so well.

The air was heavy with fragrance

Of gum leaves damp and wet

I was dressed for winter

And her solitude I met.

Children playing on the swings

Cyclists on their way

All taking pleasure 

On this cold cold winter day.

For me it was more than this

I took time set apart

Gave in to the thoughts that come

From a very grateful heart.

I thought about my life

And the way the days have been

And how very blessed I am 

And what it all could mean.

I have so much in my life

For which to offer thanks

It all became so very clear

As I sat on the river banks.

My heart was overflowing

Much like the river on it's way

With thankful thoughts and happy

On this winter Saturday.

I have been given many gifts

And because of them I live

I am very grateful 

And I have lots to give.

I am blessed in many ways

With family and with friends,

I have those who love me

And will 'til my journey ends.

So this day beside the river

Brought happy and sweet tears

A time of quiet solitude

And a time to ease my fears.

The afternoon was quickly gone

And the darkness soon came near

A misty rain was falling

As I wiped away a tear.

I remembered those I love

And quietly whispered my thanks,

I turned and headed for home

Away from the river banks.

© Linda J. Vaughan

June 23rd. 2012