Ride With Me

By Tom Marlowe

For those who doubt,

Open your eyes to see,

A mother's tender touch,

Or a father's calloused hand,

A flower's bloom,

Or a leaf, decaying in the sand.

On our way we may see many things, if we will.

Let me share a morning with you.

I got up early to take my ride. I've found that a bike is a nice way to commune with nature if you will, and it's pretty good exercise to boot. Not minutes into my ride a hawk swooped down near my path to find her morning meal. One creature gone to provide for another. At first it seemed cruel, but then all was right in my world. The hawk's God provided, and she accepted. A few more minutes into my ride I could feel my heart in my throat. As it beat, harder and faster, I felt ever more alive. My breathing grew deeper and faster to match the beating of my heart as I pushed on. The burning in my legs said slow down, but my soul said no, thank the Lord for giving you this gift today, and enjoy it.

And I did.

As I rode on I encountered one gift after another. Birds, squirrels, even rabbits, all out making their way in our world. Each living at the sacrifice of another. The sky was blue and the air was cool. The pond was alive with both turmoil and serenity hidden beneath its murky waters. Older men walked and younger ones jogged, each making their way. Occasionally I'd pass another. Most would wave, or nod. Some would even speak. But I wondered how many saw what I did, or felt the beating of a heart, or felt the presence of a God?

For any who doubt my God's existence, I'm going riding again in the morning. If you keep your eyes wide open, you're welcome to come along.

©2003 Tom Marlowe -All Rights Reserved

Tom Marlowe says he is a father of four, husband of one, boat salesperson to make a living, writer to relax and have fun. "I'm pretty much an open book," he claims. "If there's anything else you'd like to know, just turn the page."

Tom can be reached at:

marlowetb@yahoo.com

Thanks for stopping by

Come again soon!