Joni M. Fowler
As I gazed in the mirror at myself,
and the lines time had etched on my face,
I couldn’t help but think, “Where did I go?"
As for my youth, no... there was no trace.
Unexpectedly, tears began falling.
Tracing the lines on my face.
Then, a soft voice whispered in my ear,
"My child, walk with me.
Let’s find some grace.”
As “He” took my hands, I looked down in wonder.
As the lines on my hands turned to gold.
He explained, “These were gifts to you over the years.
They represent all the loved ones you’ve held and still hold."
"And this deep line that lies between your eyes."
Represents all the pain you've been through.
But if you wish to erase them all now, child,
It would alter paths I chose for you."
He said, "Some of these lines are your tear stains.
You've shed so many over the years.
I can take them away if you want to ,
But with them goes those you held dear."
"And lastly, my child, are your laugh lines.
The most beautiful lines... smiles you've shared.
Imagine the loss if I take them away,
for the memories will simply fade, into the air."
At that moment I turned back to
the mirror.
And I said , “All of these lines I see."
Are a journal, a roadmap of my life.
And without them, I wouldn't be me.
So I turned off the light and said, “Thank you."
For the grace you have shown me tonight.
For each line represents all I cherish.
I shall treasure them all of my life.