Clearing in woods

Was a clearing in woods
where I once would escape,
when those things back at home
became too much to take.

Though just a child back then
could see things crystal clear,
how tree canopies blocked
storms and kept out the fear.

Walked deep in the forest
through the snow, mud and stone,
felt most safe in the wild;
more alive when alone.

I would smell the green moss
and taste crispness of air,
filled me with a wonder
beyond any compare.

Searched hills with adventure,
mounds of effigy rocks,
I would follow the tracks
til I found that red fox.

Had a brook full of fish,
not too big but they'll do,
the fun was in fishing
and the day-dreaming too.

But the goal of this trip
was that clearing of woods,
it helped me to see how
life out here was still good.

There's just something about
how the sun would pour down,
that open oasis
showed me I could be found.

Got some sense of my life
and the man I'd become,
still must let go of rage
and the pain of harm done.

Never told my parents
why I went there, nor would
but spirits soared high when
I saw clearing in woods.