Though ever so tempting,
all lush and lovely
and quietly edged in morose elegance,
the raven's dark allure
is superficial,
boasting only cleverness beneath.
Embrace instead the bold phoenix
for behind her radiant beauty lies
a strength and wisdom
forged by countless paths, tests, and challenges.
When she has reached her limit
and seemingly can bear no more,
her soul shrieks, NO, I will NOT submit!
She ignites by sheer will and fury,
regroups, and starts anew
carrying all that she has learned forward.
You are that strength and light and will.
Own it. You will not falter.