Smile Lines

Smile lines
reflected in silver
grew from
joy’s seedlings
planted in
the stony soil
of dark roots.

Beneath the
weathered ivory
an inner child
was once chased
by a nightmare
sunlight could
not escape.

Now my face,
washed by
survivor’s strength,
no longer bears
the teeth of ghosts.



 ©Susie Clevenger 2014

Grace at Real Toads has us writing about mirrors. Many know my story of childhood  abuse. For those who don't you can read about it here.

Comments

Grace said…
I read your story again and I am filled with admiration of your survivor's strength ~ Love and joy from your family have chased away those ghostly nightmares of your childhood ~

Thanks for linking up to Saturday's challenge ~ Happy weekend ~
brudberg said…
A survivors strength.. to have a haunted childhood.. good to have those smile lines erasing them..
I love the last verse...indeed no longer haunted and a survivor !

Thank you for sharing
Peace
Siggi
Kenia Santos said…
Susan this is strong and powerful writing. I also love the final line.

Kiss. <3
Sherry Blue Sky said…
Fantastic, the survivor's strength, and that the teeth of ghosts can no longer bite.....
Ella said…
Hugs to you Susie-for reminding us to see beyond and how love chased those ghosts away! Survivor skin is beautiful-I am sorry for all you have endured!
Hannah said…
This is stunning...moving and sharp yet tender...very powerful, Susie.
Sumana Roy said…
i love how the smile lines triumph
over stony soil and ghost teeth...
a wonderful take on the prompt..
Truedessa said…
A survivor's strength..it takes courage to survive..wishing you peace..
Anonymous said…
The separation between the teeth and the smile is quite wonderful here. It works super well to convey the kind of triumph of the survivor. Thanks. k.
Other Mary said…
Such a beautiful recount of your triumph. x
LindyLouMac said…
Powerful words. :)
Margaret said…
"washed" indeed. I read your link - your story - for the first time. I left a message there as well.