From within the human heart

The human heart, vulnerable and doubting,

is the place where everything begins.

It covers itself with light,

it shrouds itself in shadows;

and from seasons bright and seasons dark

produces its fruits.

From fearful seeds

the heart grows thorny brambles

of hate, deceit and greed.

These entwine with other frightened souls,

multiplying their sad despair

to deny life and its possibilities.

From hopeful seeds

the heart grows trees of compassion,

love and peace. With delight and celebration,

they urge other hearts to set aside their fears

to dance exultantly, to live defiantly;

to let go.

Fear and hope;

the human heart, fragile and uncertain,

is the place where everything begins.

© Ken Rookes