avatarErika Burkhalter

Summary

Erika Burkhalter captures a transcendent moment above the Arctic Circle in Norway, expressed through her poem "Rivers of Glass" and accompanying photography, which reflects her deep connection with nature and the cosmos.

Abstract

The web content presents a profound personal experience of Erika Burkhalter during a summer solstice in Norway, where the mesmerizing beauty of the Arctic sea transformed into "rivers of glass" led her to a moment of self-transcendence. The poem "Rivers of Glass" and the author's narrative describe this moment where the vastness of the sea and the grandeur of the landscape dissolved her sense of self, immersing her in a state of cosmic consciousness. Burkhalter's photography, paired with the poem, invites readers to experience this timeless moment and the transformative power of nature. She also provides an audio recording of the poem to convey its rhythm and cadence, and suggests other works for those who appreciate her art. Burkhalter, a yogi, neurophilosopher, and nature enthusiast, uses her multifaceted talents to share her awe for the natural world.

Opinions

  • The author believes that the beauty of nature can induce a state where one feels both infinitely large and small, fostering a deep connection to the universe.
  • Burkhalter suggests that poetry is best understood when heard, as the auditory experience captures the intended rhythm and emotion.
  • The author values the impact of a moment of transcendence, as it continues to influence her perception of open water and her sense of self.
  • Burkhalter encourages readers to explore her other poetic works, indicating her confidence in the resonance and quality of her writing.
  • The mention of her professional background in neuropsychology and yoga studies implies that these disciplines inform her perspective and artistic expression.
“Rivers of Glass.” Up above the Arctic Circle on a summer solstice day in Norway. Photo ©Erika Burkhalter.

Rivers of Glass

A moment of transcendence

Rivers of glass snaked across the path of the sea, sliding, gliding, coalescing into diamond points of infinity, mesmerizing me until I couldn’t breathe for the sheer delight of the beauty teasing, taunting, guiding me towards a glimpse into eternity.

And for a timeless moment, I couldn’t see “me” anymore.

The photo, and the moment, described in the poem are from a summer solstice day in Norway, way up above the arctic circle. All around, the sea stretched into infinity, only bounded here and there by granite peaks rising from the waters to touch the clouds. I have never had a moment where I felt so big, and also so small, or so connected to the matrix of “cosmic consciousness.”

Now, every time that I see the glint of sunlight on open water, I am transported back to the magical realm of that timeless moment, and I lose “myself” in the “all that is.”

“A Moment of Timelessness.” Photo ©Erika Burkhalter.

I believe that to truly understand a poem, it needs to be heard. To hear the rhythm, the cadence, the emphasis, please listen to my recording of “Rivers of Glass.”

If you enjoyed this poem, you might also like:

Erika Burkhalter is a yogi, neurophilosopher, cat-mom, photographer, and lover of travel and nature, spreading her love and amazement for Mother Earth’s glories, one photo, poem or story at a time. (MS Neuropsychology, MA Yoga Studies).

Photo and poem ©Erika Burkhalter. All rights reserved.

Poetry
Photography
Spirituality
Nature
Travel
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