The Quiet Places

Sometimes we need an antidote for our busy modern lives. When we reach those odd saturation points where we feel like we haven't seen the sun for ages and the entire world seems to be constructed of concrete, it becomes time to get outdoors. There is an inherent part of our genetic makeup that craves the wonder of creation, that yearns for open spaces. Every so often, we need to obey that part of ourselves and step out of our suburban surroundings for a time. It isn't necessary to go completely "Walden," but a nice hike, a bike ride, a walk on the beach, or even a night in a tent can do many people a world of good. The wilderness, even when taken in moderation, can whisper into a person's soul and tell him that all is well.

The Truest Words
Out amidst environs desolate
In the lonely, barren lands
Where the desert stretches out
Beyond the work of human hands
Where the silent stones stand watch
In their ancient, solemn hush
And the only sound that may be heard
Is the wind among the brush
And in that world of solitude
Where silence reigns supreme
A man may ponder undisturbed
He can think or pray or dream
He can wander aimlessly, perhaps
Where no foot has yet to tread
And listen to the quiet words
Most hearts have left unsaid
Where it seems there is no life
It thrives abundantly
Where it seems there are no words
Sometimes, the truest ones will be
A man has but to listen
With an open heart, a willing ear
To know the wisdom of the wilderness
Which few men ever pause to hear

By Frank Carpenter ©