In the cool shade of the forest
A river winds its way along the wooded shade.
Cool and serene the water flows
As on its way it goes.

In fantasy I can see a canoe gliding by
With Indians paddling along
Quiet as can be not even making a wave
Silently moving by and then gone.

I see a fish rising to the surface
To catch a bug sitting there.
I remember sitting on the bank with a pole
Catching as many fish as a forked branch would hold.

A swim across to the other side
Would be a refreshing treat
But courage and strength I would need
And deep holes I should heed.

Along the forested bank the flowering
Red bud and mountain laurel peek
Giving a glimpse of their flowering branches
And I am speechless as my Lord's presence I seek.

Through the canopy of leaves above
The sunlight slips through with beams
Of rainbow hues it seems.
My soul is lifted to great heights of joy and love.

The water moves swiftly along,
Where it came from and where it goes
I wonder but do not know.
Enjoying the scene so serene I thanked God
For the beauty I see and raise to Him a song.

Jane Ward Smith©
July 24, 2004
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