When I Was Last

Embraced By Nature~~~

Photo by Alessandro Capuzzi on Unsplash

I walked around the lake, The trail is dotted with maples, oaks, and pines on either side. The wild flowers of spring, like jack-in-the-pulpit and rue anemone, Have come and gone, But the songs of the wood thrush and towhee can be heard in the distance.

It is a mild June day, and summer has officially arrived, And the sun filters through the trees’ canopy, Casting magical shadows.

A glistening black cormorant is spotted on the lake’s surface, And without giving notice, flies off to find a new location, Free from prying eyes.

Photo by Kevin Grieve on Unsplash

I watch as the breeze ripples the surface of the lake, Causing small waves to slap against the shoreline. This same breeze brings welcome relief To my sweaty brow, encouraging me to Continue my trek.

I pass a young boy and his dad, both carrying fishing gear. The boy shouts a vibrant hello to me And I respond in kind.

Photo by Yael Gonzalez on Unsplash

I ask him if he has caught any fish And he proudly responds, “Yes.” I congratulate him on having success, And wish them both a great rest of the day.

The dad beams with pride, and rightfully so.

Father’s Day, June 21, 2026 … Beautiful in every way…a gift from the greatest Of all Fathers.