From the back of the amalgam-coated glass
Reflections of a backward self
A communications gallery of
Familiar features that time has shaped
A metamorphosis, I think not so

For eyes, eyes unchanging as mountains
Covetous of the material world
Conveyors of deception
Keepers of a stoic past
Guardians of a Pandora’s box

What powers thee possesses
To penetrate this tenured vortex
What contrivance
Releases water and salt
A fissure

Swirling emotions, confusion
Muscle fibers that remember
Bits of information released and recaptured
Bolts of pain flashing across a shielded chest
Sanctuary sought within a fetal self

What powers thee possesses
To penetrate this tenured vortex
What contrivance
Releases more water and salt
A river

Arms extended
Promises of safety
Broken bones, broken trust

Caregivers at work
Expressions of love
Seen from afar, further still

Words of wisdom
Instructions of work
Failed expectations, disgust

What powers thee possesses
To penetrate this tenured vortex
What contrivance
Releases water and salt
An ocean

Religious beliefs
Procreative duty
A numerical lot, identities lost

Sharing of food
Selected portions
Calculated worth, lessened value

Childhood dreams
Encumbered plans
Lost play, labor bound

What powers thee possesses
To penetrate this tenured vortex
What contrivance
Releases more water and salt
A horizon

Such is the power of unconditional love
Of accepting non-judgmental eyes
Of healing hands
A soul who knows such disturbances
Such sorrows of childhoods lost

A spiritual journey renewed
Resiliency is my strength
Active patience my tool
Universal energy my food
A soul so noble my guide