Looking Glass

When I look into the mirror

At the face staring back at me

On the other side of the treated glass

I see many things.

Sometimes I like what I see:

Beauty, elegance,

Strength and character,

A sparkle of charisma,

Glowing personality.

Who wouldn't be attracted

By such a stunning likeness?

Then I realise it.

Something is wrong-

Is it the reflection?

Or is it something

On my side of the glass?

I find the need to adjust the light

And then I can see

All that remained hidden by the shadows:

Blemishes and scars

That I preferred not to think about;

Parts that need washing, cleansing, purifying;

That my hair needs to be combed,

My teeth brushed,

My breath freshened,

I need a shave too...

I shut my eyes and reach for the switch

Desperate to regain the image

That for so long had held my gaze,

But something is wrong,

For that reflection has lost its appeal.

And all my pride and vanity

Cannot prevail

Against the truth revealed by the Light.

Oh to God I had remained in ignorance!

But it is not so.

And now the choice is mine to make-

Between Truth and Lies,

Freedom and Bondage...

Knowing that either choice will be difficult.

And that no matter which one I choose,

Something in me

Will have to die.

Aviary Revolution

No more dark thoughts of dread

Like thunder pounding in my head.

No more long nights lying awake

In fear of the searching light of daybreak.

No more of the excuses that I once wore

Like dirty bandages over putrid sores.

No more cringing at the stares I've borne

From soulless children of the corn.

Content no more with the crusts of bread

That keep me little more than dead.

No more! I say. Nay, I cry!

While from mountain peaks that touch the sky

My soul, unfettered from the earth,

Takes wing and soars amidst the mirth

Of freedom's wind and bliss' rain

Far from the dying echoes of pain.