My Shadow Poem by Indigo Rose Christman

I walk upon a path of darkness, clueless as to where it leads.
Rising above me, their branches entwined, ancient trees obscure all sunlight.
My feet sink into the soft ground.
The air is tinted with the scent of soil and fungus.
Behind me I see a being… a shadow in the cover of trees.
I know that I should fear, but the figure brings me sudden joy and peace.
I stop and watch my shadow… he stares back with invisible eyes.
I continue along through the deep dark wood, never knowing where I’m going.
Around a bend and through the branches I see a faint light. I hurry on.
I push through the thick branches, and there before me is the sun!
A dusty path winds through fields of wildflowers and bright trees, full of life.
I hear bird song and see a squirrel skitter through the tall grass.
I take a step but my heart cries out. My shadow!
I spin to see my shadow watching me with guarded eyes as he crouches just out of the light.
I breathe a sigh of relief and take two steps towards the glowing path.
I look back to see my shadow leap towards me, but fly back again with a gasp of pain.
I stare bewilderedly and he stares back with sorrow and longing.
My heart pulls me to him, but I turn once more to the sun.
I step onto the path of light and turn to see my love, my shadow, fade into the darkness.
The sun burns my skin, and blinds me, and I cry out in pain.
I fall to the ground as my heart starts to turn to ash in my chest.
With my last strength I drag myself to the edge of the murderous path of light.
I fling myself into the shadows and am swallowed in darkness and despair.
Then I feel his presence, and open my stinging eyes.
I see him at last; he is not a shadow.
He scoops me in his arms, and carries me deeper into the woods.
He sets me down on soft moss, and I look into the glowing face of my love.
Gently he tilts back my head and drips cool spring water into my eyes. They heal.
Even more gently he plucks a glistening white flower and rubs my skin. No longer does it burn.
And even gentler still, he pulls me into him and presses his warm lips against mine.
My heart of ashes becomes a burning coal once again.
And I live on with the brightest light in the world…
Even on the path of darkness.