Changing Landscapes

Carol A. Hand

On my way home after running errands

I looked toward my house while waiting

at the  s  l  o  w  e  s  t  traffic light in town

and decided to pull out my phone

(something I never do while driving)

to see if I could capture the winter scene below

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What is  now (looking north toward my house a block away) –

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My little hobbit house is hidden from view

by the weathered willow tree beyond the parking lot

and sheltered by pine, ash, crabapple, and white birch trees

Even here one can see evidence of nature’s beauty 

although what is now markedly contrasts with what used to be

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What used to be (looking north toward my cabin in late afternoon) –

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My cabin in the norhtwoods during another winter

Was a sanctuary surrounded by forest and wetlands

providing respite  for a while before life led me onward

to urban settings in prairies and mountains 

with just enough space to create gardens

both with plants, and metaphorically, with caring people

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Retirement meant a chance to start anew, again

with time for grandchildren and deep reflection

to live simply and heal a weary wounded spirit

grateful that teaching, writing, and gardening

help me re-engage and contribute in constructive ways

knowing that beauty can blossom in unexpected places

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