The Reflection

I watched an older woman,
A bit now past her prime.
She gazed into a mirror,
Searching for lost time.
She turned her head this way and that
And tilted up her chin,
Then mustered all her confidence
And displayed a winsome grin.
As she turned and walked away,
I noticed in her eyes
A sad and soulful longing for
Her beauty now hidden inside.

It's said that one is only as old
As heart and feelings tell,
But few the men who care to look
Beyond the external shell.
To take the time to delve within
To find that precious jewel
Is more than most men will invest.
First glance is near a rule.
So sits that gem, cold and alone,
As she upon her chair,
Gazing out the window
As she brushes out her hair. 

© Janet Ma'ly February 2009

If I were a painter I could paint that picture on canvas but you have painted it with words. How lovely and true and sad as well.

Janet..This is beautiful! While reading, I felt the poem was directed to me..which is the mark of excellent writing! Thank you for sharing!
Julie