Katacha Díaz is a Peruvian American writer. Wanderlust and love of travel have taken her all over the world to gather material for her stories. Her poetry and prose has been published internationally in literary journals, print and online magazines, and anthologies. Her most recent credits are: Ethos Literary Journal, The Pangolin Review, Sleet, The Galway Review, Voice of Eve, Muddy River Poetry Review, Harvests of New Millennium, Poppy Road Review. She lives and writes up in her perch in a quaint little historic town at the mouth of the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest, USA.

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Simple Joys

By Katacha Díaz

Strolling about in the Singapore Botanic Gardens,
I was captivated with the breathtaking surroundings.
I delighted in a dazzling symphony of colors and 
fragrances and stunning art sculptures.

I spotted the smiling girl on the swing dressed in 
Singapore’s traditional local clothes — a batik  
floor-length skirt, blouse, and a sarong kebaya.
Surrounded by exotic flowers and foliage, 
she soared on the swing in joyful abandon. 

I stared mesmerized at the life-size bronze
sculpture. It was brilliantly mounted over 
the stunning landscape showing the girl at 
play, in an intimate connection with nature.

The playful art work of the local girl on 
the swing was a visual treat and nourished 
my soul. It was a gentle reminder to savor 
each day and embrace the simple joys of life.

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For The Galway Review 8 (Printed Edition)