A Poem for Fall: Stillness Moving
Background
Fall is the best season. Hands down. As the first hint of the changing leaves appear (and college football season gets going) I instinctively rejoice and relish the stretch from Labor Day to Thanksgiving. It doesn’t hurt that this time of year reminds me of when Mary Jane and I fell in love and got married. It’s a time of beauty, and reflection. It calls for poetry.
I wrote this poem a few years ago after a run in the park as the sun was setting on a beautiful Fall day. In it I explore the paradox of the stillness that can be found while still physically in motion. We experience this paradox particularly as we slow ourselves down to attend not only to the beauty of our surroundings, but also the peacefulness contained in each noticed breath. There is glory all around for us to attend to and enjoy — the omnipresence of the Triune God (who abounds in steadfast love through Christ) only enhances this rich experience.
Stillness Moving
OUT in out IN Pace for pace Breath for breath Rhythm to observe Light's escaping Shadow's return Wonder embrace me Painted hues Shrouded for now Outlined cloud Signals sun's parting Moving still Stillness moving Sovereign in session Relish the autumnal glory Breathe, breathe
Moment-By-Moment 