The Dare To Try

A reminder to find what brings you calm!

She takes her first deep breath, beginning her trek into the dark woods. Another day of life running its course.

These woods represented freedom and vastness. Anything she wanted to be; she could be. 

As shadows cast over every tree, rock and foreign object in this new landscape. Navigating this environment in a new color scheme is also a reminder of loneliness and fear of the unknown; called tomorrow.

She treads slowly, her breathing matching the cadence of her heartbeat. Each step crunches the earth below as it attempts to ground herself. 

All she has to do is reach the other side. 

Once there, she can be herself again. 

Once there, she will know she has the strength to overcome whatever life throws her way.

The sound of the rushing river flows into her mind. 

She walks alongside this body of water, clear, and rhythmic. She is reminded that while her life continues on its unique path and in its daily role; she is not as alone as she believes.

As she breaks through the line of trees, she pauses and finds her focus. She sees the light on the porch up ahead.

Home. 

As she jogs the last stretch, the tension releases from her shoulders, and the day’s struggles and energies peel away.

The soft light guides her up the steps and to her front door. Moving forward, she turns the doorknob, heading inside. 

She spins on the threshold and takes one last glance at the woods. They seem brighter somehow now that her eyes have adjusted. The scent of pine floods her senses, bringing peace and clarity. 

She closes the door behind her, breathing out once more. The effects of her trek decompressing her nerves further.  

Tomorrow is a new day. While it might be a repeat of today and the next day. 

For now, she can rest, and remove the mask temporarily. 

For now, she is safe and free. 

Until the day arrives, when she can remove it for good!