Walking In the Clouds At Sapa

Rugged moss-covered rocks scale the ancient mountain To slumber in the vaporous mantle of cloud, crystal icy water cascades down Fine mist settles upon my face, I cup my hand to water and take a sip A meandering river of opaque glassy emerald waters plunge then dash on by Waters burble, drum rolls over beaten rocks, natures crescendo plays Crisp air clings, then dances through the hazy hills, to twirl, then gently dip Each step my mind captures the moment, rituals of village life A girl stirs indigo water in a barrel, so I stop to ask how and why Points to tiny purple flowers, vibrant colours leap from the purses on display Nearby, goats perch precariously chewing, oblivious to people walking by Salivating smells of chilli chicken, coriander waft lazily through the air An elderly man squats, cigarette hangs off his lip, quietly readies for the day Visitors desire unique experiences, risk to go where no one else has been Breathe, the intrepid driver hurtles, churning mud, on the slippery road Dashes past villagers and temples so I can walk amongst the clouds Guide Ly Thy Ly takes me to her home and before the family altar Feel spirit connected, I am humbled, every day they give thanks and pray Tribal woman shares her heart, stands tall like the mountain and just as proud Misty peaks, tumbling waterfalls, granite mountain ranges Splendiferous from the earth to the sky Natures wondrous beauty, stirs all my senses and curious mind I learn, we love, we share, we take our place in the world A spirit nature flourishes in your heart and in your soul Simple is a way of life, so be gentle and be kind Written on 11/07/2019 Entered in the "Tri-Con contest" Sponsored by Emile Pinet