14 Comments
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Dorothy Patent's avatar

I love this piece, Wendy. Too often we think of 'curling up in a cave' as a negative escape--we 'just can't take it anymore'--so it's like a failure. But your cave is a place of caring where you can heal and come out when you're ready--or when you dog needs a walk! I love that bit of humor at the end. The next time I feel that need to curl up in a cave I will choose a soft and loving one; even dogless I can use it to recharge and heal. Thanks.

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Wendy Parciak's avatar

I'm so glad you read and understood my meaning, Dorothy!

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Mark Kolke's avatar

What to do? That is exactly the right question. I don't know if a cave is the answer, but I understand the urge to withdraw and isolate. It's safe, protective, and shiveringly isolating - so it needs to be temporary.

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Wendy Parciak's avatar

haha, my metaphorical cave is warm! (I do have a dog, after all). But it is definitely temporary, only used when needed.

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Mark Kolke's avatar

Agreed - a cave can be a metaphor, and it must also hold that a metaphor can be a cave ... so we can slip in and out at will

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Mary McKnight's avatar

Love this! My kitty would be at the entrance of my cave. Your piece was so perfect. I delight in the imagery and now in the mental creation of my own cave.

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Wendy Parciak's avatar

What a good guard kitty. We will emerge from our caves all the stronger!

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Good Humor by CK Steefel's avatar

Beautiful.

I’ve been sick and Apollo will not leave my side. I’m in a sick cave. Hope I can emerge soon.

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Wendy Parciak's avatar

You are strong. I have no doubt that you will. And good boy, Apollo, for sticking with you!

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KSHERNANDEZ's avatar

🫂 for when you're ready if you want um.

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Wendy Parciak's avatar

Aw, thanks! Those always help.

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Suzanne Morrone's avatar

Beautiful writing and imagery as always. I don't know what else to say. Hugs.

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Wendy Parciak's avatar

You say the nicest things, always. Thanks for reading, Suzy!

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Nov 19
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Wendy Parciak's avatar

You get it exactly, Nadia. Somehow I knew you would.

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