By Ren Harper
When reaching into the darkness
Be sure to further strain the weakened muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints, bones
Beyond what is comfortable
Beyond what is painful
Beyond what you think is possible
And claim a clear purchase onto what you would rather avoid touching
Sink your fingers in, unwillingly
Begin the excavation
Sometimes a thorough investigation
Brings forth artefacts worth cleaning, polishing, exhibiting
Whilst in other moments
You find mere curio to be pocketed
and perhaps, momentarily, to be marvelled over
As you rediscover them
During the unboxing of the souvenirs of your life
But often times counterfeits are exhumed
Clinging mercilessly to your hands
Entwining, as if you are one and the same
Before you cast them aside or bury them
Ensure you have looked at every detail
Every pattern, process, protrusion, perception
Every sentiment and value
Every representation and speculation and abstraction
Only then can you extract yourself from the shadows you entertain
And rather than always careering forwards,
Hopelessly hopeful towards the light
Without looking back
Walk with a sideways stance
Keep watch over those ruins
Look and touch if you need to
But beware
They will always try to ensnare you
Keep you digging,
digging,
digging
And so
When reaching into the darkness
As long as you are moving
You will unearth your light
Comments