in the presence of elders

by Elouise

forest_in_winter-wallpaper-1920x1080

in the presence of elders
a bench awaits me
small among survivors
of what I cannot see
silent they surround me
bear scars made beautiful
newly touched by pure
wool of soft winter snow
steady they line the way
ahead through crystal mists
calm healing presence
towers above me far
from places long called home

***

Recently I changed my computer wallpaper to the calming scene above. It greets me regularly and brought these words to mind.

There’s something about that tiny bench down in the left-hand corner that invites me to sit and rest awhile before taking on the next part of this amazing journey called life. I can’t think of a better congregation than the company of other survivors.

Thank you for your presence.

Elouise

© Elouise Renich Fraser, 13 January 2016
Photo from wallpaperswide.com