The Gate Called Beautiful

Long, gray, empty days

head lowered, watching every shuffling step

careless, care-filled

                      Invisible

silent, lonely

hands curled 

      empty

aching to be touched

I saw nothing-

dirt and dust, hurrying feet

Felt smaller

less valuable with every passing hour.

Began to wonder if I ever had worth, value

Was I ever loved? Could I be? Would I be?

Ceased looking up with hope

should someone pause

eyes ever downcast lest they see the truth of my pain

Smiled a watery, dismal smile

extended a barren empty vessel

Begging the smallest crumb of notice

Until that day

Felt you take my hand

The warmth of your touch

the strength of your grasp

You pulled my to my feet

Looked me in the eye

Smiled

Saw me-

           truly saw me

The warmth of your embrace flooded frozen limbs

Knees trembling my toes began to move

the rhythm of some deep cosmic song...

I could not contain it

I leapt

I sang

I danced

Your laughter kissed away doubt

Your smile filled me

Your touch brought healing to places

I never knew were broken

I did not even know were broken

Beggar's robes cast off

You re-clothed me,

led me into Beautiful