Candlelight Mantra

Candlelight Mantra

Behind tear-stained eyes, my mantra cries
"Don't be like those who, without Sight,
spread darkness 'cross my candlelight"
But what a fight this is,
my words, it seems, explode beneath my breath,
the steam upon my shades formed
by moistened cheeks aflame
like asphault after summer rain.
So hard to see that
just below my fear and rage
surrender waits for my embrace.
And finally, in these arms I sigh,
and hear the poet's soft reply
in words transcending black and white.

"You cannot be like those you see
whose light has slipped beneath the leaves
because, you see, you know of me.
My arms here for you to seek,
so take a breath and let it out,
make into words a silent shout.
Then take your little lamp with you
and share your light where others do.
Feel their warmth until the time
your flame provides the bread and wine
to nourish the soul and calm the mind.
And most of all, be always kind,
to yourself, dear friend, be always kind."

And so I mind, and then I write.
A poet watching timid light
dance upon the candlewick,
a prayer of thanks upon her lips.