When I Close My Eyes

When I close my eyes, I enter a world all my own. Sometimes, I find myself in the midst of a familiar, comfortable place, surrounded by loved ones. Other times, I carefully construct a scene to suit my mood – a clear, sunlit sky above a wide field of flowers; raindrops drumming a steady beat on the roof of a remote cabin; the dark, cool stone hallways of a gothic castle.

When I close my eyes, I create stories. I have conversations with people from my past or present, who now only say what I expect them to, and I always respond intelligently. I have adventures in places I have never been with people who exist only in my mind. I sail on the ocean like the most formidable pirate, duel a swordsman with agility and skill, explore the remote jungle, climb the tallest mountain, get swept off my feet by my one true love.

When I close my eyes, I become the best version of myself. I am young and strong and beautiful. I am wise beyond my years; kind but never soft. I am persistent, courageous, and determined.

When I open my eyes, I hope my writing can incorporate just a fraction of the excitement and passion I feel behind my closed eyes.