Take everything as it is, child
I will not be here forever
Sad as this notion
Kisses your forehead, let it
Whisper words of hope

And welcome them in
And welcome them in

For even among these darkened days
There is a glow about you
That must not fade

Preserve your innocent ideals
Retain your thoughts
And know they amount to
Far more than you
Might have imagined

When put to practice, child
Your ideas and your light
Can burn the world
In a fire that warms, soothes
Holds, and comforts
All who question the nature
Of human love

We are merely shadows of
Who we might have been
Darkened puzzle pieces
Floating downward
Inside a cool glass of river water

Seek out others
Connect and share
Each one of us has something for the other to gain
Each one of us has in his or her possession
A glance, a word, a whisper that can
Change the life of another

Do not hide.

Time is precious as is
We would do good to not waste it
And stop your clocks now
Heartbeats will suffice

Amidst the lies, the pain, the turmoil
That most harbor
Let your light
Your love
Your inspiration
Flourish, rejuvenate, and make whole

My sickened heart


But I am not alone.

There are others who have endured far worse than I
Who have succumbed to their addictions
Who have lacked the support and love I found
Where I would have least expected it, and
They need you more than I

Go to them
And make right
What only you can.