# 121 Solace

Solace: comfort in times of distress.

During the ice storm that left us without electricity for days, I found comfort in the radiating warmth from the woodstove. We were able to stay warm and cook food, and paradoxically discern the beauty of the disaster outside our windows.

Walking the rice paddy dykes in Nam, fearing an enemies bullet step by step, moment to moment, I found comfort in the images of the verdant countryside, and the smiling faces of the Vietnamese farmers.

In times of stress, or not, I've derived pleasure from the myriad of nature's offerings: sunrises, sunsets, foggy mornings, kayaking calm waters, rain storms beating a soothing rhythm on the metal roof, snow flakes the size of quarters falling on the darkest of nights, strolling barefoot on a deserted sandy beach, a yoga session, self hypnosis and more.

With all that in mind, I think there is no solace quite as strong as human touch.

You took my little hand
Wrapping it in yours.
Tears welling in my eyes,
We trod the path through the park
To that medieval fortress' doors.

Along the path of life
Other's hands touched mine
Or clapped me on the back.
Each one lifted me,
And I would feel fine.

You took my big hand
In your tiny frail one.
Reflecting, you spoke
In tone strong and clear;
You've always been a good son.