My Image and I

From across the room, my reflection shines to me. The mirror shows the same girl I've always been. I smile at her, and joyful eyes welcome me in. As I approach this glass toward my living portrait, with each step I see the years that have gone by. Forty-six unfold before me, by my last stride. Leaning up close, tiny rivers flow under my eyes, my skin tone has darkened, and I have less hair. Not Snow White, and 'of them all', I'm not most fair. I gaze into my eyes, looking for sympathy ... I see love and pain, peace and courage instead. Vanity loves new buds, hating blossoms with dread. I stand back now, at ease, remembering myself; but before I kiss this reflection goodbye - We share a hearty laugh, my image and I.