It’s comforting,

the nest.

It has been a tradition in our house.

Each of the kids, in their younger years

and still sometimes now,

if they’re hurt

or sad

or sick

we build them a nest.

Pillows and blankets,

solace and warmth

fashioned into circular swirls of support

all on the the floor

beside the place where the home parent is.

Sometimes it’s on the lounge.

Sometimes built up on the kitchen table

but always the same  -

a tangle of  textiles,

and love.

At times, food and fluids are placed within the nest, along with the mini dvd player and toys,

there are always lots of toys.

The nest is mostly a solitary place.

Time for the little bird to mend

but sometimes others come to sit

or snuggle

or watch

or comfort.

It’s something we’ve always done

and something they’ve always loved

and in some small way

I like to think

it helps them to heal.