Peering past the worn edges
through the stacks and
stickiness left behind
from the words that
fell long ago.
Yet their residue
still remains,
smearing the surface
and disfiguring the
distant image below.
Over the cracks and
shards of brokenness
that lay hidden underneath.
At a glance it is
a mosaic pieced together
from everyone you have
ever met.
A combination
of their words,
actions and beliefs.
Scribbled or carefully
crafted upon small
squares and stuck for
you to see.
Day upon day.
Although this covering of
words create a barrier,
the thin layer of glass
beneath cracks, as experiences
and dreams pierce through.
Splitting apart the truth below.
In the dimly lit shadows
you search and memorizing
where each piece fits
as you see the distant
faded version below.
When all you see
is what you’ve been told and
where you have been.
When the mirror is too
broken and covered
that the disjointed reflection
you see is nothing like
what you remember.
A still small voice says
turn around.
Fix your eyes on me.
As you turn the notes
with faded edges
get blown away in a flurry.
All those things you thought
you were, the ways you
were treated.
Tumble to the floor and
are trampled
under your feet.
Tentatively you peer into
His eyes and despite all
the notes at your feet,
the cracks and splinters
behind you.
His gaze is gentle.
Holding you as
your tears fall.
Reminding you of your worth and
who He says you are.
Eyes that saw you before,
saw you then and see you now.
Yet still treasure you.
POET: Jharne Duke