THOUGHTS ON MY MUSE

I watch her as she walks past me,
her posture upright, indicative of purpose and grace.
The pace is precise and determined...
nowhere specific to go, she's in her own home...her space.

She carries herself with dignity,
you feel an easy comfort in her stride.
To know her is a luxury, glimpsing into
the depths of contradiction slicing from inside.

Outwardly she exudes confidence,
a veritable pillar of strength and purpose.
The thoughts and feelings she tucks away
within the well developed surface...

Doubts...insecurities...and unspoken fears,
a defense she has mastered over the years.
Smiles and laughter on the outside
masks any of the pain and inner tears.

She rests her head on the pillow, eyes closed,
her breathing relaxed and steady...so it seems.
I watch her sleep, listen to her breathe,
knowing she might be tormented by dreams.

She won't let go of perceived responsibilities
even within the depths of sleep and slumber.
I wonder, as I watch and observe,
if she manages to feel the slightest bit unencumbered.

I have been told and am aware
that she feels safe when she's lying in my arms.
Is she aware? Does she understand
how hard I would battle to keep her from harm?

I witness the innocence and serenity
when she rests with me, her face awash with trust.
Perhaps, in her state of semi-consciousness
she temporarily lets her worries float like dust.

I am the self-proclaimed and valiant
defender of her dreams.
Conscious, or not, I nourish them
and hold them securely as she deems.

The inner strikes, occasionally cutting through
her composed and confident outer shell
are quickly put back to rest within her
deep, where they constantly dwell.

One day, I know that she will find courage
from within to match the exterior.
All the demons within will be released
leaving her truly and undeniably superior.

At ease with herself, all burdens...
released courageously at last.
No longer will she need to put on a facade
to cover any lingering pain from the past.