Today I Looked In The Mirror

I wake in the darkness of early morning
Brush away the clinging gossamer of sleep
In the quiet which feels as though no-one
Has ever touched it, stirred its gentle air.

Glance in the shadow glass. Frown.
Is that really what I look like?
Make-up signals effort, as if I care
So I leave my face bare. Because
No magic could ever lend
A sylph-like grace to this lumpen form-
Close the door, trap the ogre inside.

Today, though, I came home in a happy daze
Looked in the mirror
Spread the curtains wide
Let the pale winter sunlight stroke my skin.
Transformation-
Mouth still too small, face far too big
Gaze penetrates the imperfect surface,
And, spinning, finds release.

Here the eyes that have seen so much! Bright snow, cathedrals crumbling into dust.
Here the lips that shape kindnesses, the eyes which comfort mute,
Below the hands which touch the shoulders of friends,
Turn pages into worlds wonderous and new

Here the flesh that craves first love, that one day may create new life,
But for now is content to house a gentle spirit.