Lake Bonny Park

Going to the park was a great experience for me. After such a long and busy week I usually find it hard to take time and and just be still. I often try to spend time alone but thats not always easy. Being forced to spend quiet time reminds me how much more I should be doing it. Not only was I able to appreciate nature as it shouts for joy, but I was also able to practice a little of what Mary Oliver described in her poem, Six Recognitions of the Lord.In this poem threes a sections where she enters into that place of not thinking, not remembering, and not wanting. As I read through the poem I wondered what exactly she meant by that. I didn't really understand and I may not eve fully understand what she means but either way I decided to try it out for myself. I asked myself what would that place look and feel like, I'm not entirely sure but here's what I got. As I was walking on that paved road surrounded by tall majestic tress on both my left and my right, I had the crazy urge to walk with my eyes closed- which I did. While I had my eyes closed I felt the smooth but yet powerful wind overwhelm me and I could hear the sweet song of the birds accompanied by the swaying of the branches as if they were in a dance. My mind, body, and spirit all felt at ease. I didn't feel as though I had to worry, and I wasn't in a hurry to get things done. I guess I was just in awe of my surroundings.I wasn't thinking about anything because I felt as though there was no need to. For just those two or three minutes of walking with my eyes closed I felt at peace. Maybe thats the place Mary Oliver was referring too. Of that I may not be sure but at least I found my place.

( "I went to Lake Bonny Park for this assignment, and I stayed there for at least 40 minutes.")

****Short Poems*****

As I sit and listen

I am reminded of how great you are

Not just due to a song so commonly sung

but due to the reality of who you are.

The birds of the fields sing for joy

as you supply their every need.

So will I shout to the heavens

for you, are all I need.

As the deer seeks to quench its thirst

My body longs for you glimpse of your touch.

The blue jay sings,

the strong winds cause a wave of joy,

the majestic trees clap in amazement,

the finely dressed lilies bloom in wonder,

and the roaring waters run wild

as the crackling of the dead leaves announce

that new life will soon come.

Blue- the color of the sky

Green- Earth's attire

Yellow- the bright rays of the sun

Brown- the richness of earth

Colors- all displaying the beauty of their maker.