I rarely look—
not because I forget,
but perhaps
because I remember
too much.
Maybe I’m tired
of this same face,
or maybe
I’ve buried
myself
too deep.
But today,
I stood there—
still.
Noticing:
grey threads
woven into black,
eyes that drift,
yet seem
to listen.
Lips —
quiet,
waiting.
Then it asked:
Where were you
all this time?
I listened.
I searched for an answer.
I wasn’t away,
I said.
You dug deep—
it whispered.
What did you find?
Nothing to show,
I replied.
Only this knowing:
there are still
so many rooms
within me,
unlit.
Some truths
must ripen
before they shine.