Perseverance

Sadness is not an enemy. 
It is the goad and fuel to the fire. 
Which fortitude cups its hands around 
To countervail the dark running amok 
Eager to stomp out light with its shadows. 
The fire shines on the silver lining 
Crouching underneath even the gloomiest of clouds; 
And allows the unflinching vision 
Past the knotted lashes and mangy hope 
Into the colors of the rainbow. 
The fire is waiting for a whiff of wind 
For it to flare up and illuminate 
The face seared by tears. 
Sadness is not an enemy. 
It is the goad and fuel to the fire 
Which smolders silently and persistently 
To warm and soothe the night. 
That fire will eventually turn into the day. 

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(This poem first appeared in Wax Poetry Art)