Phoenix Song #2

Stretching my wings as the first rays of dawn 

Pink and throbbing burst over the horizon.

I am trembling now, too weak to walk on my own.

Yet too strong to sit amidst these dying embers

Charred remains of what was. 

There is nothing left of my old self,

That ancient and confident life of half-opened eyes
Which searched the distance for a glimmer.

She is dead, the one who stood sentinel, stoic, on guard.

Her end came with honesty at last

Not the struggle itself, but the answer
Leaving no room for hope.

So she left.
Burned up, stood up, walked out.

Made a choice and chose to live against all odds. 

Knowing that a life without hope was not worth living.

And so the path will clear.
Trust it, always. 

Emerged from the fire, newly minted
Scorched and scarred, but glimpsing restoration.

She will again grow wise and diligent 

confident and strong backed.

But she will never close her eyes again.

She has survived the crush.

She will bear the pain and bring the world love.

Jennifer D. Behnke - October 24, 2014