Mountain Peace
The mountains where I walk
instil me with a deep sense of peace,
a shimmering lightness
of relief and bliss in a place
where my lungs can inhale
a green breath of delight.
My green hiking boots laden
with mud stains, similar to
the palate of a rainy day painter.
Each day for the past year,
I have climbed this hill,
ears snatching the sounds of chirping
blue jays and other secrets whispered by nature.
To the left, a sleek stream flows,
a gentle reminder of my own call of nature,
as I meander between the bushes
of the rocky path, squat in its magic,
wipe and cover up, like my ancestors
did way before I had a chance to notice.
The silence and fresh air massage
my neurons and every moment here
is cherished as I rejoice in the wonder
of what the creator whoever he or she is,
has left here for me to enjoy even
if I must return to earth tomorrow.
Diana Raab, MFA, PhD, is a memoirist, poet, workshop leader, thought-leader and award-winning author of fourteen books. Her work has been widely published and anthologized. She frequently speaks and writes on writing for healing and transformation. Her latest book is Hummingbird: Messages from My Ancestors: A memoir with reflection and writing prompts (Modern History Press, 2024). Raab writes for Psychology Today, The Wisdom Daily, The Good Men Project, Thrive Global, and is a guest writer for many others. Visit her at: https:/www.dianaraab.com. Raab lives in Southern California.
