[198] Stroll and Linger

I want to stroll and linger—cuddle close

near the murmuring creek.

It's just enough to see you clear

to raise me high and bring me flight,

as Earth sighs slow and sings in delight

all the answers that we seek.

Through storm, shine, change,

it clears a path, holds open hands

and releases wrath.

So listen close, from where you are

ignore the rumble and the grumble

far from sight and filled with blight.

Listen not to distance not seen whole

listen near to what unfolds.

It's the lingering earthly stroll—in one place,

the intentional, aimless wander

with someone dear or newly found,

or all alone in the wild.

Sigh and sing with the Earth—we must,

to be humbled and become whole.

Newly ready—speak your next, deep breath.

Then, stroll and linger—once again.

It's like all good things, it takes time

—and the will to hold.