There is a space in the midst of relentless stress. This cozy little area is surrounded by a city with such a high level of anxiety one cannot even cross the street without feeling like a mice in a maze. My space is the center of comfort. It is where I find the ultimate peace.
As the mass of people pound away in pursuit of their dreams outside, I bask in tranquility with my feet resting on fine Italian tile, Venetian music emanating from above and a classic door made of solid oak or possibly pine.
It is that whitewash stained pine door that puts me so at ease. I could spend hours in fascination of the inspiring indentation patterns of the on that door. I could though, sit there for only a few minutes before those in the vicinity might wonder why I was there for so long. So for my short time there, I gazed at the grooves which some master carver must have spent days if not weeks whittling into the wood.
The floor was raw. The tile was cut in perfect squares but its surface was uneven. It was so rough and unrefined each of the tiles looked as if they were sliced from a mountain in Italy, cut in flawless squares and laid beneath me to enjoy. Although I was deep inside the bowel of a massive hotel-casino complex, that floor made me feel like I was in the midst of a European outdoor adventure.
The music of the full orchestra radiating from the elaborate sound system was enough to soothe my soul. It was a team of sweet-sounding violins, classic horns and drums that added the drama. Together, the sounds penetrated to my core and brought a sizzle to my spine. For just I moment, I thought I was truly in Venice.
This extraordinary relaxing environment brought my body into physical and spiritual balance. It instilled a confidence within me like I had never felt before. Any stress on the outside did not faze me. I was now ready to face any challenge before me with no doubt of my victory.
I walked out of my stressless space, experienced the cool waters and fresh cloth nearby and strutted out to face the masses with the most positive winning attitude I've ever experienced. Hundreds, maybe thousands going all different directions and all in a hurry.
It mattered not to me. I was unaffected as I was put on a heavenly equilibrium. Regardless of the tension out here I was calmed by the mere visualization of my Venetian enclave and my eventual return to the music, floor and the door that alleviated the pressures of life.