Standing still by the banks of a river in Scotland

Camila Contreras

We wander in the sun before stopping –
along the banks of the River Teith
my feet are at rest, but my mind is flying far away 

I admire the world rushing by –
            the stillness of my breath contrasts
            with the river running, racing  

Below my feet the water ripples –
            and glitters in the sunshine
            sending rays upwards to blind me 

I can see the different colours of the pebbles –
            diluted in the peaty, amber water
Despite its hue, the water is so clear –  
it makes me want to jump in for a swim 

In the shadow, I can see tiny midges fly in circles –
            thankfully minding their own business
Across the river a wood pigeon takes flight –
            heaving itself from the top of a tree 

The leaves are so green –
            it is the peak of summer beauty
And I take four minutes thirty three to take it all in.

Camila Contreras is a Latinx and French-Canadian travel writer. In her spare time she writes short stories and poems about her heritage, travels, and the natural world. Her poetry was published by the Scottish Book Trust and Capsule Stories and will appear in StAnza and Polar Expressions publications. @Caminioca