Exceptional

A time to search for the better things in life

Yearning For the Good Things

by BethShelby

In times like these when all the news is grim, my heart hears echoes of another day-- a day when skies were brighter-- when air was free of toxins and breath came easy-- when fresher eyes saw promises of bright tomorrows.   My heart yearns for the purer things in life-- friendship, love, respect, and honor-- stimulating conversations-- without judgment or prejudice-- people willing to listen to others with an open mind. My eyes long to experience the beauty of the world-- majestic mountains, cascading cataracts, gentle streams flowing through lush meadows, sunsets, rainbows, and starlit nights, ocean waves gently lapping at sandy beaches. I long to feel a firm hand holding mine-- to touch the softness of a baby's skin and hair-- to stroke the fluffy fur of a kitten or a pup-- to relax and allow warm sunshine to caress my body-- to enjoy the zest of refreshing breezes on a summer day. My ears crave the tones of beautiful music-- the lilting laughter of children-- the gurgling sounds of a flowing brook-- the songs of birds or cooing of doves-- the tender voice of a loved one. I want to savor the scent of freshly baked bread-- lilacs blooming in the spring or gardenias in summer-- the aroma of the morning coffee brewing-- the damp earth after a summer rain-- the salty smell of the seashore. My whole being cries out for a time of refreshing. Let me escape a world of stress and discord, and spend quiet hours allowing my soul to rejuvenate. Let me not think of how few days I may have left, but rather how I can best use those I've been given.

Recognized

#352 2020