DOMUS MEUS

As life began, HOME was where desperation competed with sorrow.

Apathy outlined parental shadows -

corners smothered in clutter and dust.

A household haunted by past disappointments.

Hope long abandoned.

Sometimes HOME was a feeling.

Warm hugs from an elderly neighbor.

Kind words spoken by a favorite teacher.

A friend's encouraging smile.

More than once, HOME was built upon youthful desire.

Heady lust, dominated rooms scented of raspberry incense.

Change of address usually included a male "ego placebo".

No solid foundation - a house of cards.

Eventually, I prayed for a strong wind.

Although not expected, he arrived right on time.

Warmed my spirit, while lighting my ghosts on fire.

As I exhaled ivory smoke, wisps of opaque dreams took shape.

HOME resides in every goal achieved and milestone celebrated.

Life is constructed of change.

Earthly years caress aging bodies.

Lines and wrinkles created on the map of human skin,

reveal clues about our soul's journey.

HOME exists in every mind we reach and heart we touch.

Tinsel tresses shine like glitter on dark velvet-

my well-earned crown.

Once a year, I will joyfully blow out candles on the melt -

until my own is extinguished.

Each sparkling, unspoken wish -

Brings me closer to HOME.