It is taking a risk, staking a claim
to a room in one’s home, a home that is shared with others. It can require one to EXERT self to create a PLACE, perhaps even disturbing others. The process can expose intensely personal desires and aesthetics. And for it to be successful, in truth, no one else can do it. It must be done by one’s self (though others can support). Done with intention and the whole self, it can make one feel fully ALIVE. I am looking forward to this process: creating a place of safety and nurtrance, a potential SALVE to my spirit. I welcome this as a spur to inward reflection and outward expression in equal measure. But it must be mine alone – it will not do to HALVE the space, to compromise in any way. I am ready.

Georg’ann

Gift from the Kumano Kodo

what PLACE opens
this artful, tiny box,
an intricate puzzle
inlaid wood patterns
view from every ANGLE
delicate sliding, catches
slide elsewhere, try again
HALVE the distance, release
she is caressed into opening
Shinto charm inside, protection

Heather