Growth

26 May 2000

Take this hand, gentle now, and teach me life
for I know nothing of what matters
only of things that this life covets.
I am a child, floundering,
arms flailing hopelessly,
knowing that I must grow
to earn this life.
How to steep the heart in gentle thought
and tender kindness to each soul
that brushes past my heart?
How to render hopeful openness 
to a heart much harmed by mendacious mien
and allow the chance
for fruitful beginnings?
I do know I am strong-hearted
pleasant guise and beguiling body
and mind found in poetry’s maze.
Do not fault me for this journey;
started young in abuse, I struggled to the path
and only now feel my feet beneath me
panther grace a startling pace.
Take this hand, gentle now, and befriend this heart
until thespian pursuits and hiking sports
do tie our souls together.
I am more and more
less what I was
and more
what I should be.


© 2000, Tara Tambolleo