not too far away
I went on a hike with a friend
We parked at the Garden
our feet they went troddin’
along the path and bend
The two of us hiked
until out of breath
about where The Brother’s Trail
came to our path
Decided to break
and handle with care
the Sun was shining
God’s breath was the air
We drank to quench
no more would be wise
a hike still ahead
cause cramps tear eye
Speaking of eye
some movement up trail
black and white through trees
did I see a veil?
Awkwardly looking
I tapped on my buddy
to confirm to myself
that I was not nutty
The confirmation was made
what debt did we pay
to see six Nuns
walking our way
Seriously a vision
was starting to unfold
a beautiful story
that won’t go untold
Those six Nuns went by
with God in their eye
each one in a gown
from top to ground
smiling and nodding
their heads up and down
and I were both hot
when remembering no camera
to take the shot
The feeling subsided
with anger away
don’t be so selfish
and ruin the day
Each looking to the other
with wonderment and awe
still disbelief in witnessing
the sight we both saw
A swig for us both
pack on underway
up Johns Brook Trail
and we thanked God for this day
Along the brook
old growth smelled great
there was no doubt
no need for debate
Home for supper
no later than eight
a blessed day
from the hike to the Nuns
to the food on my plate
Laying my head
on the pillow to rest
I thank God for my blessings
and let him do what’s best
-C. H. Eldridge
*Can you find the hidden message in the poem?
Adirondack Native Photography 