Times Like These

In times like these I sit under the old oak. I hear the red leaves rustle against the brisk breeze. It's as if they are whispering to each other. Bidding a farewell to those the wind gathers up. 

In times like these I ask for peace. A pleasant peace to surround me. In the calm I seek serenity. It's as if I can stretch out my hand and pluck it from the air. 

In times like these I think of the future. It's the pleasantness of the present that makes me look into the far future. It's where my wife and children are. They long for me to come home to them. 

 In times like these I look at the past. It's unchanging guide gives me grace, and teaches me to learn from its mistakes.

 In times like these I rest my head. I forget to think and just pause.  The rustling sound of the crinkly foliage ceases. My breath and heartbeat slow. Time stops for a minute.

 In times like these I am still.