We all have our dream getaway. Our desired safe space where stress and fear are completely invisible, leaving only peace and comfort remaining.

Mine lies among the outskirts of the woods, far away from the city and pollution that most New Yorkers are all too familiar with.

I dream of a wooden cabin resting on a large plot of land. A fire pit built in front of it with wooden logs provided as seating. Logs that await to be filled with friends visiting. Sharing stories of hopes and dreams around the embers of the fire while roasting marshmallows like we used to in our youth.

I think of a cabin with trees of different sizes standing close by. Providing shade on hotter days while still leaving room to welcome the sunlight above that greets you warmly with each new morning you step outside. A cabin with a covered patio I could sit on with a blanket and a hot cup of coffee on darker days, just listening to the rain as it patters down onto my house. The noise easing me like a lullaby. 

I dream of the sanctuary awaiting me in that beautiful cabin, freeing me from the confines of the city and stress of my past that I’ve always felt trapped in. I dream of laying among the grassy field, my eyes closed and letting the whistles of the winds blow my worries away, replacing it with pure and utter happiness. 

Perhaps one day I will get to see this safe haven first hand, and live out the rest of my days within it, alone or with a family of my own. Until then, I shall keep dreaming of that little cabin, counting the days until it becomes the reality I desire most. 

Editor: Erynn Crittenden