Österreich 

As we drive through the hills, the meadows of flowers create an infinite, colorful blur across my window.

Tulips of every color catch my eye.

We pull over to gather a handful.

Even as it starts pouring rain, each petal remains vivid against the gray backdrop.

.

The summer air feels clean, and scenery welcoming.

The moment we reach our destination, the sky brightens and clouds part,

becoming wispy feathers in the bright blue sky.

I want to bask in every ray of sunlight possible.

Let them radiate through my skin and into my veins.

.

I want to run down the mountainside with the rushing river beside me, 

and Cocoa, the family dog, following my path trying to keep me safe.

I need to stay here for eternity.

These are the pure moments my soul has longed for.

.

It feels as though all of the world is at peace.

Or at least from my current point of view, it deceivingly seems that way. 

The pace of life here is slow.

No stress or anxiety constantly breathing down my neck.

So much different from what I am accustomed to, in the most perfect way.

Austria

Isabel Yu