All my life

I have searched for a place of solitude…

a refuge, where I could create with words and color,

un-distracted by fear that friends or foes,

or even sounds of Nature

may intrude.

I have sought a place

where my spirit could soar freely,

un-encumbered by physical demands…

Free to listen to my heart speak

about why it hurts and cries…

Why it’s lonely, and shy…

and sometimes wants to die.

I have sought a place to recall the happy times;

moments of joy and laughter;

caring and caressing

and inspiration flowing.

" Is there a mountainside or cave somewhere,

to provide the solace that I seek?"

If so, I haven’t found it, yet,

but for tonight,

I’ve found some solitude

in the dark shadows of this late October night,

where absence of light

has laid to rest the distractions of the day…

where, now, my spirit

can listen to my heart speak

and guide my hand to write.

Santiago Chavez