she'll do...

 
I stared at her
for so long it became uncomfortable
studying her features
the way her eyes fought the urge
to lower beneath shielding lids
or shift to avoid contact being made
barring the gateway to unfiltered access
how she drew her bottom lip into her mouth
nervously worrying it between her teeth
a stray strand of hair escaping restraint
curling along the line of her jaw
a shadow of texture & depth
all colour long since faded out
no less vibrant for it's glimmering silvery tones
flesh still supple & unmarred
...save for the freckles that have always been present
...& the scars...
& I thought...
...this isn't who I'd hoped she would be
but she's more than I had expected
...given her history...
reaching out in compassion
I placed my palm along her wavering reflection
smiling in satisfaction
well, girl...
the years have certainly taken a toll
but we've still got it
and a lot of time ahead...
...goddess willing...
...a long way to go
& I think we're going to be okay