A Rest and a Poem

Taking refuge from the chaos, cruelty and violence of today’s world, I offer this simple poem, inspired by a quiet visit to Comlara Park in Hudson, Illinois on April 26, 2026.

Timeless in the Park – A poem     

I took my weary body,

Deposited it on a lonely bench,

In the arms of a welcoming tree,

On a sunny Saturday afternoon.

A glorious lake, calm and steady,

Glimmering light reflecting on top.

Two men, a boat, searching below

The gleaming surface for fish in vain.

A pair of geese unbothered

Gliding, graciously, seamlessly.

A most gentle breeze caressing

My cheeks warmed by the rays of the sun.

Rustling sound of branches, leaves,

Waves flapping on the shore,

Birds chirping in endless gossip,

Faint children’s laughter farther away.

All senses tuned in,

All thoughts tuned out.

Barriers, borders fade,

All things, no things appear

At once.

Timeless in the Park.

Basel Al-Aswad, father of EIL founder Christopher Al-Aswad, is a yogi trapped in an Orthopedic Surgeon’s body. His loves in life include reading, writing, hiking, enjoying nature, meditation, and spending time with his large Iraqi family; now, semi-retired, he is exploring new avenues in medicine, education, public speaking, teaching, and social engagement.