Butterflies and Pearls

Wings of gentle freedom

gems of irridescent beauty

whispering the bittersweet secret within of hearts that have ached

painful miracles born of a private struggle for release

Wings cocooned in a binding darkness

a grain of sand pierces and wounds innocent flesh

invoking a season of protection that becomes the seed of healing

preparations underway for a time of rebirth

and movement and purpose and joy

Presently flight is hopelessly denied

and beauty hidden within the protective shell

an eternity seems to pass

while the unseen work of transformation

binds pain to tears to mourning

The small cocoon appears lifeless and dull

deep waters submerge a hardened and rough shell

each containing the wrestless and quiet agony

of unbearable lonliness and isolation

where delicate wings and precious jewels seem but a taunting illusion

Within these prisons wait patiently for their treasures

it is only through embracing the stillness required of difficult seasons

that triumphant bursts of colorful wings

and the breathtaking jewels of honored pain

shall adorn untold heights of freedom

Nestle deep within me, Lord

the hope and heart of your creations

sight to see beyond this cursed pain of this temporary confinement

ears to hear and the courage to trust

the bittersweet promises of

butterflies and pearls

(Lani Kent C0pyright 2003)