While On The Way

I drove through the countryside
on the Friday after Thanksgiving
to a celebration
at my cousin's house.
Eager to see my family,
but with a struggling
heart and body.
The past six weeks
have been heavy ones.

Yet the scenery
all around me was peace---
open fields with cattle and barns,
treetops swaying in the wind,
a sunset splashing
vibrant colors across the sky.

I had set out early for my destination,
so there was no rush, I reminded myself. I ached to feel the peace I saw around me. Spotting a gravel drive, I parked my car, and stepped out of the driver's door. The air was cold against my face, not unbearable, just refreshingly chilly. The wind whipped my hair wildly in all directions. A tree across the road bowed in the wind. The cool air against my cheek, the complete stillness of the countryside, and the beauty in the expanse of nature calmed and encouraged me, soothed the parts of my heart that felt the urge to cry.

Sometimes,
you find what you need
on the way 
to your destination.