An earthly paradise

I have always imagined paradise as a kind of secret garden. I walk from my dream into a narrow shrubbery patch, barefooted; I can hear a small trickling stream faintly running along the bushes, towards the light at the end of the narrow path.

I continue on foot on this soft mossy thriving path; trees lightly rustling above my head, butterflies fluttering around me, as I move effortlessly, until all of a sudden the foliage opens up, and in front of me appears the most enchanting place I have ever seen. This sweet purity leaves me breathless.

No, I’ve never been to paradise, at least not yet; but there is an enchanted paradise here on earth, where I can always find peace and love. Every time I visit this paradise, I am surrounded by amazing grace.... warmth pulls my spirit upward, lifting my heart to the brightest cloud.

This paradise is not as lush, or as beautiful as the one in my dreams, in fact, there is not even a single fruit tree; only potted foliage, and few flowered bushes, but the sweetest fragrance fills the air; the fragrance of love, grace, and tolerance.

Peacefulness comes down to me whenever I visit this paradise. There is a sense of reverence, calm, and acceptance, I feel a kind of presence, a feeling of benevolence almost conscious.... like if God is there; like real paradise. It evokes that.

A beautiful angel lives here; she asks no questions, believe in all the best; never doubting, ever trusting, withstanding any test.

In this paradise the flowers of the heart overflow in abundance, the sweet scent of love, acceptance and affection fills the silent serene air, compassionately, mingling with the gentle perfume of the potted caladiums and impatiens. This is not paradise; it’s just a mere garden, a simple garden...

A treasure to be cherished, a gift from God above; is the beauty of this paradise, touched by unconditional love.

A space covered in bougainvilleas and love, where the breezes carry the aromas of all good things. Never overpowering, never judgmental.

This earthly paradise is my mother's garden. And this is a tribute to her, on her birthday, a tribute to her goodness and wisdom, and to the unconditional love she has given me all my life.

To you, mom!

When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;

When troubles come and my heart burdened be;

Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,

Until you come and sit awhile with me.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;

You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;

I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;

You raise me up... to more than I can be