the edges of myself

my smile,

a long-lost friend

who i hadn’t realized departed,

slowly backed out the door

years ago, almost imperceptively.

she’s beginning to reemerge

along with the rest of me.

i see her reflected back at me

in mirrors and photographs–

recognizing the joy that flows

from behind her– feeling safe

enough to show herself.

regaining confidence– understanding

that nothing is lost in allowing

herself to step forward– full-force,

dimples and all.