"From Within"

I sit in front of a fire

That gives me no comfort or warmth.

Embers brightly glowing

Though it’s as frigid as the North.

And I’m jovial and lighthearted,

Though there’s an icy spot in my heart

That surfaces every so often

And chills me with a start.

As I try to name it -

This icicle in my core –

Lost loved ones come to mind

And friendships that are no more.

I guess I carry them with me now,

The ghosts of love long passed.

The spirits of those relationships

Whose effects are sure to last.

My happiness may stutter

When these memories resurface

But ultimately, I smile

Because I remember this:

I’m blessed beyond comparison

To have lived and known and loved.

And to continue to be able do so

Is another blessing from above.

So I sit in front of a fire

That offers me no heat

But I’m so full of love and joy that I’m

Happily complete.

The icy remains inside my chest

Of bygone family and friends

No longer bring me sorrow…

I’ll just warm them from within.