“The Kitchen Is a Place of Healing”

Here is where the light stays on

Even when the rest of the house feels dim

Here is where someone stirs a pot

Not because they have the answers

But because they have love

Caregiving is a long road

Some days feel like cracks in the earth

Some days feel like rain after a drought

And still we show up

We keep watch

We hold the space

You are not alone in this work

Your strength does not have to be silent

Let the warmth of the kitchen steady you

Let the scent of a meal remind you

That healing can happen in small bites

Sit

Breathe

Taste something comforting

Offer a plate to someone who struggles to speak

This is how hope survives

When the world feels heavy

Return to the place where steam rises

And hearts begin to thaw

The kitchen can carry you both

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This poem is dedicated to the caregiver, those who find the strength to take care of a loved one suffering with mental health issues or with mental illness. They, too, need our care.