Forest Strength

by Maria Lisa Polegatto

​As I step into the forest
I know it understands me
There is no shame for being me
The leaves fall from the trees
Reaching out to welcome
The birds chip to lead 
The squirrels chatter openly
"There she is again
She's come to bask in the beauty
To heal her heart from the outer world"
As I walk along the path paws prance with me
The trees are strong and still
Their branches - canopies that protect
Not just me but the wildlife that lives within
The forest works in unity 
Not casting out any plant or animal
It creates a safe haven 
It reminds me I am allowed to exist
I find my inner strength in the forest 
To help it grow and exist
For the betterment of the world
While the busy lives go on
Not realizing what they have lost
The forest heals those that come to visit
No cost - just good old fashioned healing.