Chilling Vapor

...the chilling vapor that is loneliness settled down. ~ ​Alcoholics Anonymous, ​page 151

Loneliness suspended in the air,
a damp mass, it's a palpable presence,
icy, frigid, biting. Inclined to escape,
second thoughts make us cringe at the idea,
fearing an imminent suspension in emptiness.
We dwell in the void
loathing recovery's stripping us
of the friendship facade of addiction.
Warmth and companionship foreswore us,
leaving us bereft and wretched.
Will we ever again have leave of the shroud?
Yes! Look closer. Is it a shroud or a duvet?
Friendship lies not in the dreary past
but dwells in the gracious accommodations
of recovery. Examine your surroundings,
listen to wisdom of those who established presence,
who prepared the respite. "Welcome home."
"Let us love you." "We understand."
You brought the chill with you,
clinging to what you knew. Release it,
find welcome and peace, conviviality and joy
in coming home to the place you've dreamed of.