Giving Voice to My Astonishment

This View

Looking up the hill.
I never tire of this view; this tree; this silhouette.
These colorful clouds are a bonus.
I always thought I’d have to travel far, far away
to experience the wonder and beauty of this world.
Now that I’m almost fifty years old,
I’m realizing the most beautiful place on earth 
is often right in front of my eyes,
in my own backyard.
I only have to appreciate being
where I am.
I am continually learning to STAY,
as Pema Chodron teaches;
and often repeat, as the sages suggest:
BE HERE NOW.
We search and search for that perfect moment,
that perfect place,
knowing full well it is always here.
Right now.
Waiting.

Photo and Prose © Cheryl Capaldo Traylor and cherylcapaldotraylor.com, 2016-2017.