The Survivor

Candle burning in the window at night
draws me into the halo of light
novena candle was lit when I left
replaced many a time by the bereft
still it is such a welcome sight.

A knock on the door goes unanswered
the walls are worn the wood is cancered
no one to keep the outside in shape
in sudden chill I close my cape
even see cracks within the mansard.

yet, that waxen ray of hope does shine
a beacon that to me is a sign
warmth and love must lie within
if I can only gain attention
for home has now become my shrine.

A gasp arises from the path behind
turning I find a vision most kind
as she rushes to my side in joy
basket caught by handsome boy
his questioning profile my own line.

Nearly fall to hold her close to me
strength of her hug is like a tree
she pulls our lad to my embrace
years of anguish are erased
thanks to heaven brings me to knee.

However long a journey may become
though harrowing, do not succumb
family awaits if you only survive
make all efforts you can contrive
ordeals will yield heartfelt outcome.