Excuse the melted mess on my mantle.

Once it was my only source of light.

I used to listen to Billie on wax

singing about heartache in my living room.

When my thoughts were dark and cloudy like the sky,

that cinnamon candle stayed lit for me.

It had a sweet scent and a slow burn.

Burgundy beads dripped down the sleek side.

I drank red wine and danced to a blue flame.

That’s the candle that warmed my heart.

~~~~~

Have you ever been mesmerized by a flame? Sometimes we all need a to revisit fire to remind us to be present and warm.

A version of this poem first appeared in the Map of Austin Poetry online journal in 2004.

If you like this poem consider becoming a patron of my art or share it with a poetry loving friend. You could leave a comment or question below and/or subscribe to my email updates for future appearances and release dates by clicking here.