retreat is sometimes the first step toward moving forward

sometimes in the battle of life a retreat is necessary

because you know that to go forward is not the best move

and that taking time to pull back and disengage,

to remove yourself from what is familiar and comfortable

is the first step to being prepared to move forward

I've joined a few friends in a cabin in Tennessee

there's a fireplace on the deck that I've already spent hours by,

places to share laughter and tears, dreams and fears,

stories and encouragement and crafts and games

these next few days are dedicated to all those things

I'll rejoin the front line back in Grayson Sunday 

probably tired

hopefully in a different way than I have been recently

with a clearer mind and heart

strengthened from time well spent with fellow warriors