We previously hiked this trail in 2013. Now as we approached it eleven years later I was reminded of a woman who inspired me there.

Woman on the Trail © Molly Lin Dutina 2013 and 2024

On our hunt 2013 for pink Lady’s Slippers
Elusive wild orchids of the Smoky Mountain woods 
I was surprised to see this woman
With a walker that rolled
It also had a seat for when she needed to rest

At first sight, I thought “poor thing’
At second glance I realized
It likely was harder for her to get here
Than me, walking under my own pained power
But she was here to see
The same sights as me.
We both smiled with satisfaction
At this glorious creation.

As we parted she asked the Lord’s blessing
upon me. She also posed the question
“Well, what else are we going to do?”
Yes, we cope as best we can
Whatever condition life throws at us

Now in 2024, viewing the Lady’s Slippers 
at the exact same location
I pray she too was able to come 
see them this year

I will not forget her lesson of joy
Determination, fortitude, courage
Doing what your soul needs done
Regardless of what your physique
May declare

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting  away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

2 Corinthians 4:16-17 NIV

The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.

Song of Solomon 2:12 NKJV