PHOTOGRAPHY
The River
A journey of the heart
The river has become the spot where I lay my burdens down and synchronize my life with the rhythm of nature. Each ripple of water becomes the pulse of my heart — an acceptance of rest and a release of stress.
I’ve dealt with significant physical pain from medical issues for nearly a year now, including debilitating spinal damage. There were times when I couldn’t walk. There were also times when the pain seemed never-ending.
During times of physical limitation, I visit a cabin on the Amite river for a three-day weekend. If I’m going to hurt, I might as do it somewhere with pretty surroundings.
This special home away from home has become a place where I can reflect on nature and find new peace.
I become immersed in the beauty around me on every side. It’s an all-encompassing journey of the senses. My eyes are met with the colors of the earth, water, trees, and sky.
The river flows into a place where all the world is at peace. Even the moon and the sun shine together in the same evening sky.
My ears are filled with the sound of the gentle flow of trickling water. The insects aren’t brave enough to approach people, but they’re close enough to hear their echoes through the surrounding woods. The journey of life flows forward from the greatest of creatures to the least.
My skin is touched by the wind and my body is moved by the current of the water. My soul sleeps calmly in the midst of a river night.
To my surprise, I find it easy to ride in a slow-moving boat where I can stretch my legs in a semi-reclined position. That’s saying a lot, because often I hurt even when sitting or lying down. I won’t question it. I’ll consider it the healing power of nature.
Another solace the river has brought me is the memory of good times with my father. He passed away in March of this year, but his memory lives on in everyday moments.
He loved the river, and he thoroughly enjoyed fishing. This is where I feel his presence most. His sweet, humble, kind-hearted presence, flows in this river. I can feel his peace, and my heart is at rest.
I continue my journey of the heart by sharing what he has taught me. I can follow the ways of the river, and flow peacefully with whatever life brings.
The sun will rise and set, but a new day is always born. My journey to peace will continue. As long as the river flows freely upon this earth, I will readily flow with it.
Mia Verita, 2022
Thank you for reading. Thank you for welcoming me into the Reciprocal community on Medium. I look forward to growing together with everyone here.
There are two pieces of writing I’d like to share from authors I adore in this publication. I’ve read them and reread them and find their writing to be delightful. I’m sure I’ll find many more great authors, as I continue on my reading journey.
Dr. Preeti Singh shares a lovely article about the peace and calm of the mountains. You can also learn more about a special writing prompt —
William J Spirdione shares this timely piece about a visit to the majestic mountains —
Thank you to the hard-working editors of Reciprocal for hosting this journey of the heart and for publishing my very first article here.
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