Belonging

Naysayers said it was impossible 

They said it couldn’t be done

They said I/t was too much

They said how dare I even try

But upward and onward I went

Learning in each and every step

That I am worthwhile

That I am lovable

That I belong

Up, up I go

Enjoying the views 

along the way

Each step, each look,

each breath

A testament 

to my journey.

I am a delight

I am love(d)

I deserve good things

I embrace my truth

Up, up I soar

Higher and higher

No longer looking down

but out—

Out into the world

Out into the expanse

Out into the wild

Filled with beauty,

and light, and wonder

Radiating from within

and everywhere

all at once

I belong.

Written by Rose A. Fitzgerald during a Therapeutic Poetry Workshop courtesy of SocietyX with Lisa Ann Markuson in response to my personal "Alps."

Little Red

An evil predator in plain sight

Their sweetness merely a facade.
Untrustworthy; behind their smile

lies(,) hatred, and contempt

Never safe, never knowing
who might appear..

The menacing creature slowly

Tore away at my innocent heart

This red cloak, a feeble attempt at armor
Protect mine eyes from witnessing the violent slings

Dampen mine ears from hearing the grizzly snarls

Yet lacking a dagger, I still was exposed 

down the middle,

at my core.. 

As their claws sliced and scratched 

away at my insides.

Seeking refuge in the forest;

Nature, my only friend

My safe haven

From the deadly beast

Awaiting me at “home.”

Written by Rose A. Fitzgerald during a Therapeutic Poetry Workshop courtesy of SocietyX with Lisa Ann Markuson in response to my favorite folktale.