MIRROR, MIRROR
MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL
WHO IS FAIREST OF THEM ALL?
OH QUEEN, THOU ART OF BEAUTY RARE
BUT SNOW WHITE, LIVING IN THE GLEN
WITH SEVEN LITTLE MEN
IS MANY TIMES MORE FAIR...
What kind of mirror makes these comparisons?
Implies only one can be fairest
the others inadequate?
How is that magic?
Any dysfunctional family can manage that-
Any wounded parent do the same!
Pardon the pun-
but magic mirrors aren't all they're cracked up to be...
If you want to see your true self
find a different reflection:
Maybe in a still green pond, deep into the woods
or reflecting back off the morning sun on the ocean
or a brief, insightful glimpse
in a falling raindrop
or a falling tear.
Reflections needn't be visual
Your true self might be reflected back
in the sounds of the surf at morning yoga,
a voice from a sacred temple
or a song on a CD.
Or in the stillness
when your heart is held in love.
Touch can be a clearer reflection
than any "magic" mirror.
A hug from a redeemed mother
or holding Jesus' hand.
The touch when someone doubles you.
We are reflected
in love and in laughter
by those who know us deeply.
The important principle
for reflecting our true self
is that it invites us to expand
to be more of what makes us special.
A magic mirror is no more
than a reflective pie plate.
A true reflection doesn't run out-
or run away.
It waits until we are ready
to authentically see.
So find a safe place
create a home base,
and fill it with at least five honest reflections
(for we've all met at least one
Wicked Witch, Harsh Stepmother, or Evil Queen.)
Open your eyes, your ears, your heart-and know what supports
the reflection of our true self
is becoming a true reflection
for others.
Thank you Dale, Nina, and my psychodrama family from summer camp, for the gifts of the week:, for the learning, the love, the laughter, the support, and for the rich imagery. I hope this poem can be one small reflection of our experiences, and to say Thank you. Steve K