I sought a healing sanctuary,
just to take a stroll.
And near this berm, I took a turn,
down a grassy knoll.
at its base, inscribed in white
a sign profoundly true.
With one quick read, I saw the creed
Pertained to me and you.
Didactic text from this Buddhist,
The 14th Dali Lama.
When you’re caused harm, don’t be alarmed
Internalize the trauma.
I left a heart-shaped rock as homage
To shed my heart of stone.
And to pay my debt not to forget
Took a picture with my phone.
Now I have this picture always
To begin the hard process
Of letting go, albeit slow
And no longer bear these crosses.