Ode to the Volcanic Ash

Twice my flight plans have changed due to the recent volcanic ash disruption coming from Iceland. The first time, I was still at home outside of Geneva. The 2nd time I was in Liverpool and was told it would be 3 days until I could get a flight back to Geneva. This type of 'change' often sets people off in their stress levels, emotions, etc. I decided from the get go that I would not let it stress me, but instead look at each situation it affected me as a gift. The first time, I enjoyed a free weekend of 'extra unexpected' time. The second time, I took advantage of being in the UK and quickly boarded a train and headed to my old 'stomping grounds' in the Newcastle-Upon-Tyne area. Being there brought back so many memories, and the 'Ode' below was one of several outcomes of my time there. Hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it...

Ode to the Volcanic Ash

Though I cannot see you, I am forced to stop and see

The things I need to remember

The things I need to forget

Seems a lifetime ago

Keeping the good; Letting go of the bad; Recognizing how a place helped shape me

Though I cannot taste you, I can ‘taste and see that the Lord is good’

For it is He that has guided my ship

He’s guided my comings and goings

Though I cannot hear you, I hear the sounds of the bird perched outside my window all alone and out on a ledge

Perhaps once afraid to fly

But now flown and experienced the possibilities of life

Though I cannot feel you, I am once again getting to feel the ocean breeze against my face and sense that you are with me

And although I cannot smell you; my breathe is taking in the very essence of your timing

An answer to someone’s prayer

A time out for refreshment

Though you may have disconnected me from world

I am forced to stop and realize that I am integrated into His world.

And for this, I thank you.

~ Alberta Wray ~