my soul yearned for a walk in the rain
my mind pleaded this is not rational
but echoes rang throughout as each raindrop called my name

fresh damp air filled my lungs with possibilities
each tiny raindrop washed away my fears
a cleansing was in the mist

and just like that…I could breathe again

strolling up the hill, burdens amassed from recent months
inadvertently swept away with the stroke of my foot
as I cleared each passing storm drain free of its burden

streams of freshly fallen rain rushed towards me
a celebration about to unfold
for freedom was now within reach

and just like that…I could breathe again

humbly he stood below a drenched pine
an informal encounter to be sure
a passing glance, a casual hello

a savior in damp clothing
sent for me as a reminder
not all things in life need be grand

and just like that…I could breathe again

an impromptu encounter
spent listening to a life well-lived
bringing forth pride and pleasure in the remembrance

two strangers at life’s intersection
taking time to listen and be heard
in a most unusual way, in a most unusual setting

and just like that…I could breathe again

each tender raindrop nourished my weakened soul
each tender raindrop was a kiss from above
each tender raindrop showered me with glimmers of hope

but it was the man’s yearning to hold my attention
to show me what a difference one life can make
that shattered the armor I placed around me

and just like that…I could breathe again

life need not be grandiose
for it’s in the simplest of moments
that the grandest of memories reside

and one by one they build upon the other
until all at once, you turn to reflect
and realize each simple moment has built a grandiose life

and just like that…I could breathe again