The rock I am sitting on is cold against my butt as I contemplate Minnesota blue skies and the dull earth tones of the bare ground around me. The day is sunny but bitter cold.
A trail near Minnesota Veterans Home descends into a ravine where Minnehaha Creek sparkles in the sunshine. The trees lining the streambed are stiff figures of grey, their leafless and gnarly limbs testament to winter's harsh grip. A woodpecker flitters silently amongst the trees. The sun is full against my face, the rhythm of the gurgling stream mesmerizing.
Breathe deep. Exhale. Breathe. Each breath released into the chill becomes a wispy cloud floating ever so lightly above the stream before dissolving into the mist. The fullness of the moment warmed by a flush of relaxation pushes away thoughts of city living. Breathe deep. Exhale. Minnehaha's laughing waters flow to the sea.
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