The Cayuga Trails 50 mile race was on Saturday. I carried the same beads in my running vest that I carried at the JFK 50 Mile—each bead representing someone touched by cancer. Mile three was dedicated to Howard, and I had learned from his brother, Clark, that Howard was a musician.
When I told Clark I would be running for Howard again, he said, “Howard will be sending you heavenly music to inspire and fuel those last 10 miles. He had a gift for music and created some magnificent compositions.”
He was right.
At mile three, a man was playing bagpipes right by the waterfall. I couldn't believe it. Goosebumps covered my arms as I smiled.
Howard was with me.
It was beautiful and became the inspiration for today's poem.
The Sound of Remembrance Footsteps beat along the trail, a heightened state of awareness— each distinct sound carries us forward in continuous stirring, a soulful melody threading through our steps. The roar of waterfalls drowns the music at first, but maybe I’m not imagining things: bagpipes in the woods? Could this be? The sound floats among the trees, closer, louder. Goosebumps rise on my arms as I glance at my watch— mile three. Howard is with me in spirit. I turn the corner to see the man playing for us as we embark on our fifty-mile adventure, his heavenly music confirming what Clark always said was true.
Writing prompt: Tell me about a moment during a physical journey when an unexpected sound, sight, or encounter made you feel connected to someone who wasn't physically present with you.
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