the world of self

I am all the warmth and compassion and love that I need.
For myself. For others.

Within me I find all the comfort and happiness required.
For survival. For today. For tomorrow.

Outside of my world of self --
my skin, my heart, my thoughts --
I control no man.
I wouldn't want to.

Here in this place that is my constant refuge
(and sometimes my deepest despair),
I am made whole and complete
for truly there never is more than this.

Looking outward
I face a plethora of challenges:
elation, fear, hope, death.
All of the above and more.

Inside I live only what I choose,
depending on the day, depending on me:
victory, laughter, peace, joy;
anger, melancholy, sadness, isolation.

I do not leave God out of my existence equation.
I wouldn't suggest you leave out yours -- if you have one.
Inside the world of my own making, however,
none has more power than this.