Beyond the Trees

Beyond the trees
Is the outside world.
Strange, bitter faces.
Forgotten names.
Melancholy memories.

Beyond the trees
Is where I have been,
And where I venture
Only when I need to.

There is safety here.
Clarity.
Comfort.
Confidence.

Beyond the trees
Lies heartbreak,
Loss,
Betrayal,
And the outside forces
That remain hidden
Until I cross the boundary.

Here, I can breathe.
Here, I can be still.
But eventually,
I must open the gate,
Step from the shelter,
And face what waits
Beyond the trees.