Driving towards the mountainous realms looming ahead, my breathing changes.
Deepening inhalations infuse me with a refreshing dose of sight and perspective.
In various areas of Banff National Park, I immerse myself daily, mostly alone, a solitary explorer exercising extreme caution. One particular day, with my eldest daughter and her husband, we proceed to climb to the summit of Tunnel Mountain. Spectacular views of surrounding mountains, the Bow River valley below, and the Town of Banff await our discovery. Upon reaching the summit, after switchbacks and huffingly trudging up to an elevation of 1690m, we pause. I quickly send a text and gratefully accept a video call from my best friend so we can share this moment in a state of virtual semi-silent incredulity.
At this unusual time in our world’s history (Covid-19 devastation and plague), I contemplate, with gratitude, the opportunities to learn, experience, and share. While circumstances challenge all humanity in so many ways, I am astounded.
Reflecting on Tunnel Mountain and other virtual experiences while preparing for my night prayer and each individual I love, words came in verse when I focused on one. Flowing like oxygen-rich blood to my mind, I write for, and to one. A few short stanzas grow into a song singing in my heart.
What follows is a music-less (lyrics only, as of this writing) song dedicated to him.
(However, I think it may resonate with universal implications and applications. All are welcome to read this intimate expression of my heart and personally reflect on meaning for her/himself.)
It certainly applies to my children, grandchildren, and friends.
I Am Here
I am here when you awaken
and when your eyelids welcome sleep,
when you are feeling forsaken,
or struggling in a fortress keep.
My voice, in prayer, ascends on high,
His blessings of protecting grace and peace
upon you, do I plead. With humbled sigh
I trust, His weaving care, a masterpiece.
I am here when worry furrows your brow,
when hope fades as a speck of distant light,
then God, His hand reveals the rainbows vow,
dimpling your smile with grateful delight.
I am wherever you choose to find me,
as near as the breeze caressing your face,
you simply need to close your eyes, look, see,
then walk the bridge where our paths merge in space,
follow the subtle whispering winds,
smell the freshness of hope's warm breath, inhale
step through the distance where drifting begins
above and beyond, on wings and clouds' veil.
I am there when you fall asleep,
silently listening to your heart beat,
across the wide expanse and oceans deep,
cuddling and whispering, softly and sweet.
I am there in the mountain summit breeze,
in alpine valleys and meadows, alive
with aromas of lilies and pine trees
where never-ending skies and dreams thrive.
I am there in bewitching hours of doubt
when your heart, unsure, hesitant, beats fast,
then in silent reflection, peace, a shroud,
covers your soul with hope and joy to grasp.
I am wherever you choose to find me,
as near as the breeze caressing your face,
you simply need to close your eyes, look, see,
then walk the bridge where our paths merge in space,
follow the subtle whispering winds,
smell the freshness of hope's warm breath, inhale
step through the distance where drifting begins
above and beyond, on wings and clouds' veil.
I am here, near, and there, loyal and true,
when you seek a listening ear, helping hand,
or encouragement, my nearness to view,
look above to the stars we share, so grand.
I am here, near, and there, cheering for you,
whistling through treetops, living in the wind,
drifting upon the clouds, misting like dew,
an unspoken prayer, waiting to begin.
I am here, near, and there, at the same time.
When you feel alone or wish company
I am here, near, and there, a thought sublime,
always and forever in my heart, believe.
I am wherever you choose to find me,
as near as the breeze caressing your face,
you simply need to close your eyes, look, see,
then walk the bridge where our paths merge in space,
follow the subtle whispering winds,
smell the freshness of hope's warm breath, inhale
step through the distance where drifting begins
above and beyond, on wings and clouds' veil.
© Vicki Nicholls 2021
Music, always a big part of my life, dreams, and contemplative voyage since infancy, continues its influence. I hear a tune of harmonies, melodies, and a symphony (as Diana Ross sang) with my schooling in the bowels of mercy, love, mountains, water, nature’s bountiful beauties of spiritual, life-enhancing experiences.
Life Happens . . . in a Song
=> What songs do you hear in your life’s story?
=> Who influences your heartstrings playing a melody of imperfect, perfect harmony?
=> Would you like to be a song to/for someone?
