SAFE PLACE (Poem)

Does anyone have a safe place?
Perhaps a place real only in one's own mind?
Free from prying, hostility, and attacks by others?
Maybe a place by a grassy stream bank,
With a forest nearby?
Maybe with a lamb that kindly says, "Hello ?"

Or maybe you have a safe place that's real?
A place you love to go just by yourself, alone?
Perhaps a restaurant that has a congenial waitress,
Soothing music, and food that always satisfies?
Free from hurtful comments?
A place you can let your mind wander?

Do you have a safe place you go to work?
Maybe a place with lots of projects to do?
Where you can lose yourself in duties to be done,
More than you ever can possibly achieve,
But you apply your own pressure?
Where later you can bask in a job well done?

Maybe your safe place is work for pay?
Say a little office with a desk and window?
Where you are undisturbed, setting your own pace?
Where you are free to set your own goals,
With occasional encouragement,
And leave your haven as you wish?

Does anyone have a safe place called home?
Does anyone really feel safe with their mate?
Can anyone feel safe at home with their mate nearby?
Feeling tranquillity, cozy, and secure?
A shelter free of criticism?
And you.  Do you have a safe place?

March 21, 1993