Curiosity is a Compass

My grandpa once told me,
that curiosity is a compass.
Let it guide your way through
the wilderness,
one step at a time.

I didn’t know what he meant
until today,
when I had a sudden urge
to walk away.
Embark on a journey
from the hustle and bustle
of a concrete city.

As I look down at the distance
I’ve travelled up the mountain,
I can hear the muffled sound
of roaring traffic below.
But the glistening snow
dappled with moonlight,
smooth and pure
as milky-white opal,
unveils a serene oasis.

I reach the mountain top
and witness the aurora borealis.
Ribbons of luminous colours
dance across the star-speckled sky.
Like a fine artist
with a magic paintbrush,
creating vibrant streaks
of emerald, violet and pink,
onto an endless sheet
of black velvet.
A magnificent masterpiece
bursting into life.

I knew in this moment
while I bathe in its glorious light,
and marvel at the colours
as they swirl and curl,
that I can find peace
in a frantic world.