Why I Hike

Rhythmic thud thud of my feet.

Deep steady breaths.

Lungs fill with fresh mountain air.

Brooks laugh and giggle.

Birds sing.

The trees dance.

Enduring mountains stand guard.

As rocks whisper ancient mysteries.

The tender wildflowers,

Soon to be taken by frost,

They smile reassuringly,

beckoning me to join them.

My mind is in a trance.

Love, joy and gratitude flood my being.

All human form dissolves.

There is no beginning or end.

No right or wrong.

Only sweet presence remains.