Calm: Peaceful Interlude

At the end of my tumultuous day
I sat in meditation for a while,
But I had trouble settling at first
Having sciatica pain aback both legs.

But then I realized after much fiddling
That the pain was the same
Whether standing or sitting,
So I might as well relax into the burning.

Thus, I directed the bulk of my attention
Away from the discomfort
And focused on my breathing,
With the result that my distress lessened.

Then much to my surprise
An amazing bliss arose
Before my tired eyes,
A remarkable joy, like a beautiful sunrise.

Memories arose at the edge of my consciousness
Of long ago boat rides on shining waters,
Golden sunsets against green hills,
And the rocky shores of the Muskoka lakes.

I knew this pleasure would be short-lived,
But determined to enjoy it nevertheless,
And I marveled once more
At how potent these fleeting feelings can be.

And as soon as I had settled in,
My bell then rang
To signal the end of this
Precious pause.

I sat a while longer anyway,
And arose only slowly from my place
To resume my activities,
But at a much gentler pace.