I know you suffer

and your heart grows weary

of reaching out

when it seems it is not welcome.

I know you cry.

Even when your tears

fall silently within,

I see them.

I know you fear

that letting go is failing

and stepping back is final;

a coward’s way 

of saving your soul.

It is not.

You must bow to the hope

that kept you fighting, 

step away with grace 

and let go.

Heal yourself,

bear your sorrow

and save your light

for those of us

who need to see it

in your eyes.

Shelly Aspenson