REAL

by Maria Mize
October 1, 2006

REAL

She came
from another world ----
soberly observing life
interactions of parents, the
chatter of siblings. 

Yet,
quiet wisdom revealed her gaze.
Probing recesses of hearts,
minds ---
she spoke. 

We listened.

Shyness and fear
exhibited hesitance
to odd stranger.
Hidden eyes
pulling closer to mother
when smile precipitated frown...

Revealing trouble 
not understood
evident barreness
making her hide, 
seeking protection.

She learned to forget
the wisdom of her soul,
eyes glazed
face mirroring false faces
shunning truth, yet longing
to understand and be understood. 

Lost.

Then the blue bird sang
in the freshness of morning
day lillies bloomed, warmed by the sun.

Pelting rain against windows ----

Grass bending in
harmony with breeze ----
Leaves rustling
willow branches swaying

She returned to a place
where truth wasn't hidden, 
artificial or fake.

Eyes open ---
nevermore to embrace falsity ---
truth embraced her.