A Hope-Finder

 A Hope-Finder

I stand in a familiar valley,
sensations of rich sadness
and vibrant health
somehow coexisting within.
I stop and breathe,
honor the tension of
 that which seems
so diametrically opposed.
I gaze to the mountain
that has been part of my life
since before I can remember.
Such a mix of joy and sorrow
on its slopes and at its base.
I sigh.
A sad smile slowly widens
as I realize that through it all,
I have been a hope-finder,
an embracer and recorder
 of oh-my-gosh moments.
Some of the tension
 releases with a sweet gentleness.
There is a depth and a width
to that which goes,
partnered once again
with a recognition
 of growth and healing.
The strength and sacredness
of the surrounds
allow for reorientation
to Divine truth,
 enfolding the energy
of all inclusive Love.
Deeper, wider,
beautifully benign,
with hope and abundance that
is there for us all.

Sarah Carlson
February 24, 2022

Tender Light Softens, Still

 Tender Light Softens, Still

Early morning
after a prolific winter storm.
I ski through familiar woods,
trees and trail
cloaked in fleecy snow
that sparkles underfoot.
Mellow morning sun
slowly warms the frosty air
as clouds gently disperse.
At the top of the ridge I
pause in the peace of the pines,
welcome the wisdom of the woods,
bathe in the benevolence
 and beauty of it all
once again.
 Tensions
of life in a pandemic lessen
as I turn to descend.
I let my skis fly,
enjoy a giggle that surfaces,
feel my self enliven.
My thoughts drift back to the days
just before COVID
as we wondered what was coming.
I honor what we as a collective
have endured for almost two years.
I acknowledge
the grace with which I, myself,
move my way through—
  grateful to be in a place
where hope often runs free,
the comfort of Love is present,
  tender Light softens, still.

Sarah Carlson
February 5, 2022