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.

Poem A Day ~ Mirror, Mirror