On the first day, a large black bear ambled in and out of the neatly lined cabins. From our deck, we watched as he meandered through the green space between us, stopping only briefly to sniff a spot on the ground. He paused, as if considering something he may have forgotten, and then made his way up the ridge full of pine trees. He then slipped quietly out of sight into the deep green foliage.
The next morning a soft mist covered the ground and wrapped its long tendrils through the tall grass. The mist thickened into a fog that engulfed the surrounding area. From my perch on the wooden deck high above it, I imagined I was adrift on a lone ship. In the distance, the Smokey Mountains poked their heads through the fog-sea and gave a sharp contrast to the world.
The third day brought with it a cool crisp breeze that nipped at my bare legs. I pulled my oversized sweatshirt closer to me and enjoyed the chill in the air. It whispered in my ear that summers grasp was nearly over, and that fall would soon be upon us.
On the last day, because of rain, I laid quietly in my bed listening to the soft sound of raindrops at my windowpane. Soothed by the slow, steady, methodical drip, I reflected on my week of vacation. I did not want it to be over. Not yet.
The rain persisted. Softly. Gently. It felt as if it were dripping into my very soul. Like gentle prying fingers it pulled me from my slumber and beckoned me upstairs. I settled into one of the large wooden rocking chairs that had become my quiet refuge each morning. I watched the rain as it blew and spattered. I felt it against my check. A soft, sweet morning rain-kiss.
Because of the rain, I sit, and I wait, and I watch. And, I thank God for moments of stillness. Moments that force us to be quiet and appreciate the sweet, beautiful Earth. I thank God for the week, for wildlife, for cool mornings and for all things gentle and kind.
And, of course, I thank Him for the rain.
Rain, rain, don’t go away.
Never go, please always stay.
Remind me of whose I am today.
For in your heart, I’ll always stay.