Poem by Rene McKeel
In the whispers of the wind, I hear the call, Missing the sweet scent of honeysuckle in the air, Yearning for the lilac's fragrance to enthrall, And my grandmother's gentle hands, so fair. The simple moments of glee, oh how I miss, Yearning for hours spent in laughter and delight, Craving the kindness that brings me bliss, In memories, these moments take flight. Thirsty for rivers and streams, crystal clear, The gentle flow of water, soothing my soul, Clean mountain air, blowing through my hair, In the embrace of nature, I feel whole. Sunshine kissing my skin, warming my being, The golden rays of light, a comforting embrace, In the beauty of the outdoors, I find meaning, And in these moments, I find solace and grace.
Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, and raised in Henderson, North Carolina, Rene McKeel’s upbringing was marked by both typical and atypical experiences as a latchkey kid. Overcoming severe neglect and abuse, Rene channels past and present pain into heartfelt writing. The arrival of Rene’s dear child, Reina, who saved her life, brought a transformative miracle for which Rene feels immeasurable gratitude.