Inked

Painted skin to etch begin
confide our stories deep,
while through the gloried heart impart
as kissing needles creep.
The rushing tide told disbelief
that pain repays and stays relief
to run the race embraced motif
from hurt to joy to art to grief.
The map by which the story's told
unfold our treasure true
Every laugh or tear or fear
these wounding marks imbue.
Worn with pride not bought to hide
or bind to some transgression
inner etchings looking out
the ink to put the flesh in.

Look Inside

Tides of change are rolling
listen to their ebb and flow,
your every breath is precious
and it's time I told you so.
Some in life can't see the depths
unfathomed beauty of the soul,
maybe just a shallow self
that tries to take control.
Your goodness can't be wasted
like glasses made to help the blind
you are exactly what you are
that's perfect by design.
I look in eyes with inner strength
a window to the soul,
listen to the ebb and flow
the tides of change do roll.