Mirror Work

Where are you?  Your attention I mean?
Standing right before me in this mirror?
Eyes blinking.  Not vacant.  But as you lean
closer, you notice the eyes are clearer. 

Not as medicated as before
or as confused.  A glimpse of acceptance
perhaps. Waiting to see what's in store
Here it comes: you deserve a second chance 

You have always had an infectious smile
No matter what hand you have been dealt
With the losses, death, coma and trial
It was love & protection you most felt 

I see in your eyes a kind of worry
Take care not to become my biggest fan
leave enough room to steer clear of the jury
step away from ego, so you can stand 

outside of victimhood, pity parties
Find your own voice on this empty page
You are a survivor and a smarty
You've a story that's worthy of a stage