Stop. It’s quiet here on the bank of the pond. No one is around. Watch the surface of the water. Notice the stillness. Observe the pondweed, the lily pads, the mirroring of the overhanging branches and shrubs that surround the pool. See how the light reflects on the water, creating distorted, abstract images. Watch the carp as they move effortlessly, slowly, making the slightest ripple on the water’s surface. Wait. You have time to wait. The traffic noise will soon fade, your head will fill with the sound of winter birds. Time will slow down. Hear the gurgle of water as it falls down the ornamental-rock waterfall, bringing oxygen and life to the still water. Just wait. Wait and watch. There is movement, soft and subtle, but now you will notice it. Be still. Release yourself. Live this moment. Breathe in this peacefulness. This tranquility is all for you.
Subterranean Birdsong 