Phoenix Rising

I am taking an on-line writing class called "Write Your Story." My cyber classmates are wonderful. We share our writing assignments and encourage each other along the way. Many of the stories are heartbreaking, but all of them are inspiring. For one assignment, we had to make a list of events and cultural and personal history that made a significant impact on us. One classmate's list in particular made a huge impact on me. It was so full of imagery and emotion that "poem" jumped out at me right off the page. I took her list and wrote a poem in her honor.

I sent her the poem, but I did not hear back from her. I thought, "Oh no, I have crossed personal boundaries and offended her." Then yesterday I receive a note from her. She had been out of town at a hospital helping care for her mother who has cancer. Apparently, she and her mother still have some unresolved issues and the visit just stirred all those things up. She also shared with me that she was on the verge of giving up on the class and writing her story, then she saw my poem. Quoting her:

"You have given me so much with this poem. You've shown me I do have the strength and the determination to succeed. Thank you, thank you, thank you."

This is why I write. Maybe it will speak to someone else today. I know I identified with it.

Phoenix Rising

Visible cracks appear in the foundation of my life

Insanity pushes its black, moldy head into the light of day

My emotions are bankrupt and I am left without feeling

Towering walls are ever before me, blocking my escape

A quiet mind opens the door to memories - tears flow

Hope is found in love remembered and love offered

Like a phoenix, I rise out of the ashes of my circumstances

Free to fly into the future, unfettered by the past.