Roadside Stands

 I drive an hour to work and another hour home 5 days a week. It becomes exhausting, and Lord knows I've voiced my complaints about it. I complain about driving to a good job, one that I love (most of the time), in an air conditioned car, usually accompanied by my favorite music or an audiobook, through my favorite scenes on Earth. I pass by the most beautiful swamps, pastures of horses and cows, beautiful wildflowers and roadside stands selling fresh local produce and handmade goods and I complain. What's wrong with me? I read this poem today, and it really made me feel a tad ashamed of the things I take for granted.

 

Give me the gift of time

 to travel the byways

and back roads

 

And fresh eyes to see

fat, contented cows

grazing in green lush pastures

of sweet sweet clover

 

And the privilege to stop

where and when I please

at any roadside stand

for big Vidalia onions

and ripe Elberta peaches

 

-Gwen Barlow

 



So next time, before I begin to complain, I will think of this poem, roadside stands, and all the many wonderful things I have to be thankful for.

 

Photo: http://turningpoint2.tumblr.com/post/61771827399/olivia-rae-james