I Could Breathe Again

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