My Own Little World

The door to my study is nearly always closed. It's the place I go to read and work in tranquility. Today, however, I'm inviting you in for a visit.

As you open the door, notice the Guatemalan crucifix with its bright gold and maroon flowers; it joyfully reminds me to dedicate my work to God. Although the room is small, I hope you find it cozy. A big cheerful window lets in the morning sunshine, which saturates the room with its warmth and embraces us with light. Birds chirp outside, beckoning you to enter.

An old-fashioned doctor's desk with brass drawer handles sits in front of the window, its wood full of nicks from many careless moves and tow once-teething puppies. May I introduce you to Ralph, my friendly computer, who sits on top of the desk? When I turn him on, he'll crackle "hello" and blink an inviting amber command on the screen. That's my dog Chico under the desk, snoring in harmony with Ralph and the birds.

Against the left wall are my book cases, sagging with the wise weight of cheap paperbacks and a few expensive gold-spined volumes interspersed. A bronzed Indian chief in a watercolor squints knowingly at us from the wall. Won't you have a seat in the tattered old green armchair nestled in the other corner? I know you smell the freshly perked coffee. I made it specially for your visit. Use my favorite cup there on the tray; it's the one with red and blued balloons around the rim.

Stay as long as you wish, but when you're ready to leave, be sure to close the door behind you. I like the peaceful security of this, my own little world.