As I was sitting on a bench overlooking the beach, a little rabbit hopped up in front of me and just remained there, unafraid and taking in the view along with me. Even rabbits have to slow down once in a while, and from that pondering, this poem was born:
Slow down, Rabbit
You’ll miss the view
If you keep hopping straight on
How can you enjoy the wonder of the detour?
You’re not late, silly
Consider it as always on time for the moment you’re meant to be in
Wiggle your nose in stillness
Observe in stillness
Take in what usually blurs in your vision while rushing
Constantly rushing
Is there ever an end in sight for you?
So quick to skip what’s next for the gratification that never comes with arriving at the destination
The journey is passing you by faster each day
Years of too fast days have brought you to decades of “if only”
If only I took that chance
If only I said yes
If only I was brave enough to pause
If only the present was enough
But no, Rabbit
You keep on racing ahead of that turtle basking in the sun
Just to find in your speed, a whole life weas left behind
Unlived. Unexplored. Unfelt.
Slow down, Rabbit
Before it’s too late