Lina

Just as a tree 

proudly displays its rings

that grow wonkier and wider

more whimsical and wiser

each one a track of its own

sewn 

like a thread 

through the fabric of time

connecting

the mundane and the sublime

so too are the wrinkles on our skin

etched through thick and thin

highs and lows

grimaces

frowns

dinner suits and dressing gowns

smiles from strangers

comforts and dangers

horror and humour

knowledge and rumour

each and every gest

a crease, a conduit, a channel

allowing the torrent of life

to ebb and grow

flood and flow

rise with the tide

take in its stride

all that you carry

and allow it to reach

the shores of those

you leave behind

so that they too can bathe

in your spirit 

and your soul.