It’s amazing how one telephone conversation will forever be imprinted in my memory as the most rewarding conversation I have ever had. I still recall every little sigh and syllable that was uttered. I can still feel the urgency of how important it was that I get in touch with my father, three weeks prior he had been diagnose with severe lung cancer and started intense chemotherapy immediately. “Hi dad, how are you feeling? ” I asked. “A little better now. I was sitting here watching the History channel and was actually able to keep some Lasagna down, it was the best Lasagna that I have ever had. ”
These of course were the best words I have ever heard. Due to the Chemo he was unable to keep food down, we ended our phone conversation with I love you and talk to you soon. One week later he passed away. My father was a very loving, caring, and a truly amazing man. He raised all five, of us kids. Even though four of us were his step- children. He treated us like we were his biological children. He worked for thirty-five years driving a forklift. Which he truly loved his work. His favorite hobby was taking care of his land and his horses. This land is where he is laid to rest. This is my favorite place.
As I move thru the gateway of the first pasture I see the huge barn with its few corrals for the horses to the East. It has a pear tree with an abundance of fruit on it. Then as I glimpse to the west of me I see the smaller familiar barn with its speckled rusted coffee colored roof. On the side of the barn there is an extremely wide poultry pen. A few feet straight in front I see the ever present solid, secure, and strong fence with barb wire leading to the second pasture. I open the gate and proceed thru it following the dirt path that has been worn in the ground from being traveled upon so much.
After entering the second pasture I begin my journey by foot across lush, green grass. All around me I take in the breathtaking landscape of the many different types of intense, dark, sweet smelling flowers. The abundance of trees and plants amazes me more every time I see them. As I move toward the incredibly old, wobbly bridge that covers the babbling stream. I come to a stand still in the middle of the bridge. As I listen intently to the water rushing by with its current so swift. Just listening to the sounds makes my anxiety melt away. I continue on my long journey.
Hiking up the humongous, unreasonably rough and earthy hill I notice the many different birds that are so happily whistling their songs. I feel the warm breeze and sun hitting the back of my neck. Instantly it makes me think of my father’s warm embrace and smile. I pause and take in the tranquil sounds and sights nature can only provide. Nature is truly a beautiful and remarkable sight. Each and every one of the trees is exceptional and vivacious with color and life. I persist again on my journey on foot once more down an earthly trail that has been worn out thru the grass.
I move about toward the opening to the clearing. There are pine trees as far as the eye can see. Some seem to be so tall that as I gaze up they are reaching to the heavens above. In the distance there is another fenced in area blocked off for cattle and horses to graze. It seems so long ago when it was in fact being used. I continue my quest eventually in the distance I see the four familiarly large oak trees. The trunks of the trees by themselves are actually quite massive. The trees have got to be at least two hundred years old.
They have sustained the four seasons many times. The weather damage is apparent from the limb structure and the bark condition. A couple of the trees have even been struck by lightning. The Oak trees are broadening so widely. They are fashioned in the most puzzling form of a circle. Their branches extend upward like they are demanding to lay their hands on the sky. Their leaves are vivacious with life. You can tell by the richness of the green in the colors of their leaves. I make my way thru the dense, tall grass and proceed to the center of the trees.
Each one is now located around me at its focal points of North, South, East, and West. As I acquire a seat at this point I stare around at the beauty of my surroundings. Its peacefulness and beauty astounds me. I also use my sense of smell to discover the sweetest aroma of honeysuckles. Truthfully, my greatest, most adorned fragrances. At the same time as I swiftly stare in the direction of the breathtaking light blue sky I notice the sun so vibrantly shining above me. It feels so wonderful. There are ways of watching nature that can make you feel safe, secure, and tranquil.
At this point I am flooded by memories of my father. His wit, charm, sense of humor and love rush upon me leaving me breathless. This was his most favorite place to be. When I am here it makes me feel some what closer to him. It makes me feel to a greater extend nearer to my father. His presence is to a great extent felt. This is his final resting place in his journey of life. It makes me sense that I am so stressed free and relaxed. I am extremely fortunate to have this amazing place. I am next to ease and this point and like my father I am at peace.
