Tonight's Poet Corner: That Smile

That Smile
by Belinda Roddie

Love is photogenic, and at various angeles,
she shows perspectives one can only capture
by a dirty camera lens: Clean it, and
the glare and flare both get in the way.

But between the spots and smudges, you can count
how many times she said, "I'm here for you."
How many times she reminded you,
"I'm not going anywhere. I promise."

By the time you've gotten a hold on Love,
she spins between your fingers, but the glitter
she sheds sticks to the skin - you can never
truly shake it off, no matter how much you've been hurt.

"It's not a big deal. Don't be so hard on yourself."
"I wish you could see yourself the way I see you."
And one by one, the sequins become stars in a
sky personally woven just for you and her.

Love is not afraid of showing her "ugly side."
She adores her double chin, her love handles,
her wrinkles, crow's feet, and many, many stretch marks.
And she'd be so honored if you took her picture today.