The birds chirp and chatter, singing your praises like a choir in a woodland chapel.
A quiet river flows and murmurs, reminding me of your ever-giving essence.
The lush moss and foliage cover the forest floor forming an earthy tapestry.
This forest is flush with life and offers me sanctuary.
In this solitude, something breaks away, and I can feel your presence.
I long to lie on the soft earth and wrap myself in it like a warm embrace.
I wish to burrow into the trees that graciously lend me their profound wisdom and boundless strength.
You search for me, and I willingly unveil my heart.
In this moment, I have you, God, along with all of your creations, and this peace and wonder is all I desire.

-Rhia Clay

When war came so close
The rivers of the cities rose
With the colour shifting to crimson
And the spirits of deceased had arisen
Their revengeful agonising groans
Sent deep shivers through your bones

When war comes so near
And the love we hold dear
Scatters away into nothing
Leaving the people still clutching
The last shred of peace
As the joy and laughter ceases

When war will approach nearby
And the loss of a lovers sighs
Will become so apparent
And the longing to not feel transparent
Takes over the soul
As the loss takes a great toll

I have retired from temptations of attention.
I’ve retired from the need to judge.
I’ve retired from feeling like I need that moment,
And I’ve retired from feeling too sad.

I have retired into a place of contemplation —
A place nearby, and where I sit.

I have retired from feeling guilty,
And I’ve retired from needing your yes.

I am retired.