A Hamlet From a Passing Train

The train I sat was chugging up With a rhythmic sluggish pace, It blew no smoke just rattled on Across the stony mountain face. A hamlet called me from the hills Where green slopes and ridges allied, A shard of sunlight from the clouds Helped me to a leisurely ride. I weaved my way through pathways gay Where conifers basked in the sun, I inhaled deep some fragrant air Like never before I had done. A brook with its silvery whip Kept beckoning me from afar, I could sense it’s waters pure was Nectar from a heavenly jar. I marvelled at the rural folks Living a hard but simple life, Away from din of cities large With stark bundles of pain and strife. Made me wish for a cottage small Where I could in my older age, Live with greens and twittering birds ?? Be happier, peaceful and sage. Oh my thoughts like the cotton clouds! Flit within and out of my mind, Each leave en route their footprints fine With dreams that are never defined. The train edged past and eased me out Of my sojourn at nature’s fold, The lulling mist bid farewell sweet A magical sight to behold. A passing wish I asked of Gods When straining my eyes seemed in vain, That I may once more pass that way To visit the hamlet again. ***********