The Stories~Part 11 Finding a Safe Place

The walk managed to soothe me long enough to stop pacing momentarily. When I next saw Dr. McD, I was slightly calmer, not as restless in my chair, my body, my mind. He stopped and regarded me in silence. "There's something I'd like to try, if you are willing." I regarded his face hesitantly, looking for any sign of danger...and found none. I nodded stiffly. He put on some soft music and told me to recline the chair, find a comfortable position. He began to speak, and his voice was soft and soothing. Before long his words faded, and I found myself on a winding dirt path. I confidently struck out along the road, marvelling at the colour and feel of it beneath my feet. Soon the open space became enclosed. The forest I entered was lush and green, the leaves vibrant and rich to the touch. I listened to the birds call high above me, and I followed the sound of burbling water until I found myself beside a stream. I reached out and felt the flat stones under the cool waters' surface. It was the essence of tranquility. And there I sat, a spectator to the wonders around me, unobtrusive.

The beauty faded slowly as his voice came back into focus, counting me back into a wakeful state. His face held an expression of wonder...in my trancelike state I had talked him through every step of my journey to the forest. I felt....immensely calm...safe. " We've found your safe place, thank you for sharing it with me. I'm going to leave you here...and when you are ready just come on out, okay?" I nodded dreamily, and sank back into the chair. I planned on soaking in that feeling of tranquility and safety for as long as possible.