A Healing In The Woods

I pause, dismayed by thoughts from long ago,
When I was young and lost behind these walls.
They churn inside my mind and bring me low,
Replaying years of hurt within its halls.
Above, I hear the songs of morning birds,
Reminding me of things I should let go.
Their lovely ballads are like soothing words
That mend and heal while setting hearts aglow.
A final act is played as curtains fall
And thoughts from long ago begin to fade.
I hear a voice announce an urgent call
To leave behind the weighty price I've paid.
   These woods applaud my walk of beaming cheer,
   For I, at last, have shed my days of fear.