I’ve tried to welcome people in

and let them take a drive through

my heart or a stroll through my mind,

but there are too many roadblocks.

Most people pull off to the side of the road

before they hit the center of my heart. 

The highways are in disrepair

and signs warn off intruders. 

Most people pivot and run

before they hit the center of my mind.

Paths get twisted there and fallen trees

bar them from the dangerous trails.

I will go in with heavy equipment and

tear up the asphalt. I will repave the roads.

I will go in with cranes and lift the trees

and debris. I will clear the paths. 

I will build up from the rubble

and guide tourists toward me once more.

I will make myself feel like home.

Maybe then, they will finally want to stay.