The Shadow and The Light
When we were young, your shadow took the form of a little girl
A little sister to an older brother
That ruled the world
A shadow that endlessly followed you around
Who thought her sibling didn’t touch the ground
Your shadow never left you alone
But she always made sure you felt at home
Home became a different word
As we got older
We were partners in crime that lost a mother
But we loved each other through our pain like none other
Sometimes you were more than annoyed
Sometimes your shadow didn’t let the boys be boys
But you always made sure to come back around
Enduring tickle torture fights with mom on the ground
As we aged and time flew by
(Even through the distance)
Your shadow stayed by your side
Fiercely admiring her brother’s courage
Vulnerability and strength
He never backed down and went to any length
To teach the shadow to face her darkness
And bring her back to light
As he led the way, she followed
And she fought with all her might
He taught her to pick herself up and brush off the dust
He taught her to take accountability for her choices - this was a must
He taught his shadow to stop trailing him behind
He taught his shadow to trust her heart and her mind
You see, there’s always a reason for the shadow
The darkness needs a source
You have always been the leader, the pioneer, and the force
You have shared your light with countless others
Spreading joy just like your mother
You’ve spent your life bringing those together
With selfless love
You have been the tether
Between you and your shadow
Who will always be by your side
Inspired by a brother who never thought to hide
So, even if you are on your ninth life
I would have followed you through every one
Because you shine brighter than the sun
In case you take a different form next time around
I know that every shadow needs light to be found
Copyright © Kate Collinger | Year Posted 2024
|