Fire

Flames dance closely
Trying to dominate the heat.
Searing,
Burning brightly,
Until
It smolders without flame.

Ashes smother embers,
Cooling the inferno.
Calming,
Extinguishing light,
Bestowing
A blessed relief?

Strangers have been kinder.
Warmer, truer.

A quiet life,
Safe and peaceful.
Slow and steady.
Predictable,
Until

Quiet of silence is deafening;
Shadows replace light.
Stillness, dull.
Fire Sparks, Elevates,
Gives—Feeds.
Fulfillment. Life.
Without, inspiration ceases, ennui reigns.