Thank you...
As I shared with a friend, it was what within those walls that were the most important to me. The things of value that were lost were not those I touched physically...yes, there are many things that meant a great deal to me. I don't deny that fact, and I'm sure I will grieve at differing times when I realize they are gone forever.
It happening did lead me to acknowledge some things, though.
I have to have a center within me that is also a safe place.

The cottage was were I ran when I needed rest and renewing. But I really need to work more on creating comfort and safety in my heart. Going there, I left my problems at the door. When I left, it may have been with a different perspective, but I still took them with me.

If I allow it, I can make that place within me grow...
Actually I've used it in guided imagery as a type of self hypnosis...stressful medical or dental procedures...situations that put me on high alert. After awhile, I was able to think about my cottage and my feelings of safety were stronger.

Because the cottage itself is gone does not have to be the end of that vision/feeling of security.
It's already a part of me; you are right about the structure being gone. But I can and will protect the grace and light I found there.

Don't we all need a core of safety?
...when life is rotten and hard and hurts...
a tiny but powerful center that comforts us? gives us hope? helps us to hang on? work in therapy? post here?

It's got to be something we already have, perhaps we don't recognize it because the blanket of despair hides it?
Can we "birth" it and learn to rely on it even when we feel absolutely horrible?
Are we already relying on it when we question why/when/how life gets better?

Random thoughts, obviously.
jmo, of course

In Peace