SANCTUARY

Photograph: Jacob Bentzinger at Unsplash

Cut yourself a little slack, sweet pea.

You’ve been through so much,

And the road ahead shows no sign

Of ever being fitted with a red velvet carpet.

Release unfounded guilt,

Lie down and rest,

Coax that frantic, fretful mind crackling

With shoulds and musts

Into the sanctuary of a quiet nest,

And just be.

Free every tear you’ve kept locked

Behind those brave, determined eyes.

Take a breath and let them flow,

Sweet pea,

Each tear a tiny vessel of woe

Slowly sailing into the giant Ocean of Suffering,

Mingling in infinite solace.

Spirit lives there, sweet pea,

Gentle yet strong,

Waiting to carry you to shore,

Softly, kindly,

Once your strength returns.