This piece was written at the end of a very long and frustrating day. It is dedicated to the owners and staff of my refuge – Enchanted Grounds – in Colorado.

Tension and frustration war with each other

Demanding attention though little remains

Head spinning from one to the other, unable to stop

unable to focus enough on either to find solutions

It’s been a day where all plans changed

because of things I don’t control

Yet still I must try to make something positive

out of the disaster.

Even that depended on others who could not

meet the challenges.

The first day of class

Faculty and staff prepared for weeks

Yet on the day to start, people were not in place

To support the students or teachers.

Students did not know what classes they had.

Faculty did not know the bell schedule.

And no one to call for help

Still, we tried.

But it was stressful

And none succeeded in meeting the lesson plans

so carefully prepared,

accounting for student needs and feelings and desires

on this, the start of a new year.

Needing space and pleasant company

yet able to be alone with thoughts,

retreat is found at the neighborhood coffee shop.

Where all are welcome,

And the worries of the day are forgotten,

at least for a spell

Aroma delicious and calming

coffee and tea and cream and snacks abound.

Staff pay attention, but do not intrude.

Conversation is welcome, but not expected

Some are alone, studying or reading

Content to be alone.

Others in groups for conversation and a game or two

After a few minutes, tea in hand,

on the keyboard to write away the day.

Stress flowing away

Shoulders un-jam

Headache abates

For a time, the world can get along without me

The only way to end a difficult day!