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