for Kristian
At
first glance, it hadn't been all that impressive—
Smallish, unassuming.
But, on closer examination, it was elegantly spun.
Flaxen
threads of faith, sorrow, joy.
Loneliness, trust, fear.
Failure and love, meticulously woven together;
Each strand stretching purposefully across the next.
There
were things that had to be kept in.
Things to be kept out.
She
had entered somewhat reluctantly,
Terrified of losing herself.
The very notion now laughable.
Once
bright, taught, supple—
Now warm, relaxed, textured.
Once
smart, determined, hopeful—
Now rich, measured, sage.
Once
ready, independent, hungry—
Now contented, connected, satisfied.
Once
beautiful, talented, exciting—
Now whole.
---------