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.