"A Reflection on Thought"

by Rev. Joseph Coleman

• I see them all
• and know that they see me.
• They see me because
• I am judged,
• but do they notice my glare?
• The light that reflects
• from my silver lining bounces and darts about
• leaving only the slightest impression.
• Shimmering light is difficult to catch at times,
• but I know where it hides,
• and see through its disguises.
• I can also generate my own incandescence.
• Sometimes it appears
• that this may be a flaw
• or imperfection.
• I know my reflection is imperfect.
• As a crow streams past,
• in front of the perfect blue reflection,
• his flight wavers and distorts.
• The pattern of clouds dance in his wake,
• and in them I see truth.
• In the world I reflect,
• the passing creature creates no stir.
• My inner light grows stronger,
• fed by my strange perception
• of the formations.
• I constantly strengthen this glow,
• and when those who would judge
• glance in passing
• I reflect what they wish to see.
• But if they linger
• my faulty reflection does not show
• These are the ones I fear may discard me,
• but in their nature
• they pay little notice.
• Besides,
• those who stare
• will see themselves.
• And as I burn stronger
• from this shared attention,
• I see myself deep within
• the reflection of their eyes.
• Deep pain is eased
• by the gentle warmth
• of the inextinguishable ember.