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 September 20, 2013

Finding Peace

This is one of our favorite poems, and one that feels especially poignant right now. And comforting.

We’re in Idaho, traveling toward Yellowstone. Hoping that we won’t get snowed out of spending a few days there.

Thank you all for your continued love and support. How fortunate we are to have you in our lives.

THE PEACE OF WILD THINGS

When despair for the world grows in me
and I wake in the night at the least sound
in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be,
I go and lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.
I come into the peace of wild things
who do not tax their lives with forethought
of grief. I come into the presence of still water.
And I feel above me the day-blind stars
waiting with their light. For a time
I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

— Wendell Berry[portfolio_slideshow]

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Comments

  1. Barbara Covey says:
    September 20, 2013 at 10:13 am

    Thank you for sharing this beautiful poem with me, Laurel. It is especially meaningful for me right now.
    Tom’s memorial service is tomorrow, 9/21.

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  2. Peggy Setterberg says:
    September 20, 2013 at 10:19 am

    Eric and Laurel,

    Beautiful poem and gorgeous photo of nature – so peaceful,
    hope you are soaking up the tranquility. It is turning cool in Portland,
    Fall is almost here. Can’t wait to see your photos of Yellowstone and
    beyond. Keep the faith and be gentle with yourselves as you travel
    and move forward……
    Love,
    Peggy

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  3. Diana says:
    September 20, 2013 at 10:41 am

    Beautiful poem…also one of my favorites. Peaceful still waters to you.

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  4. Janet says:
    September 20, 2013 at 12:06 pm

    Oh, what a calm and lovely poem. I haven’t read Wendell Berry in years. I’m keeping this poem tucked away. It is spot on and so beautifully written. Just what you need right now. I saw Kevin’s photo and notice of a memorial celebration in the paper and thought of you.
    Take care.

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  5. Valerie says:
    September 20, 2013 at 7:37 pm

    Hi my darling sister and Eric,
    It makes me so sad to see that you are still grieving so much over the loss of your dear friend. As difficult as it is, you have to move on and you know in your heart he would want you to. He certainly lived his life to its fullest and he would want you to do the same. Keep him in your hearts and your memories, and let him enjoy your travels through you. Talk to him and allow his spirit to swirl though your adventures. He is at peace and just take him with you and have fond memories. You will meet up again when the time is right. You have many wonderful adventures ahead of you, and I am so excited when you arrive in Florida. We will have a great time! Be safe in your travels and enjoy!
    xxoo
    Your sis

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    • Cynthia says:
      September 29, 2013 at 4:49 pm

      I love that poem!! I had just read it and sent it to my daughter a few days before reading this post, so wow we are the same vibration.

      Blessings to you two!

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      • Laurel says:
        October 29, 2013 at 7:23 am

        Thank you, dear friends, for all of your support and love.

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Eric and Laurel

If you enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, birding, art, music, quirky towns, good food, and good friends—you'll enjoy traveling with us. Join us as we explore the backroads of North America—we love company and comments!

~Laurel & Eric

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