NATURE WITHIN

BY KEISHA STOREY

When I look at the 30-foot wall surrounding this man-made prison, I envision being encased in my very own snow globe. Nature is ubiquitous within these walls — I still take notice. I ceremoniously hopscotch to avoid water puddles haphazardly scattered throughout the yard.

The birds sing to me. When I look towards the sky and watch them flying, I am reminded — even though I’m physically confined, my mind is free; free to fly high, explore, and aimlessly wander.

Rays of sunshine pour through the windows of my cell; I feel gratitude for being alive and well, shining within my heart. As I fall asleep, I am reminded, that the night fall is temporary, just like the darkness I feel.

And when Mother Nature decides to shake my snow globed, and the snowflakes blanket everything within this concrete wall, I reflect on the pulchritudinous power snow has a place where beauty isn't supposed to exist. | KS

KEISHA STOREY WRITES FROM OREGON STATE PENITENTIARY.