"Such Transitions"

It's a "New Season," It's a "New Day";

"Turning a New Page," 

"It's Transition! It's Progress!"

What labels they make for change.

But what happens when one is forced

To turn the page, start a new chapter?

What if the transition is mandated 

By someone who deems you no longer of use?

I see it in her eyes--diminished sparkle.

I see it in her steps--slower pace.

This new season, page, chapter

Has aged her fifteen years.

Too bad such transitions fail to come

With pre-arranged contingency plans:

Some people figure you'll find a way to swim

After they throw you to the sharks.

I WILL her to survive, praying fervently

For her to regain her composure,

Set new goals for herself, and become

The Woman I know still breathes within her.

I DO believe that "all things work to our good,"

But that doesn't make some transitions any easier.

I pray, eventually, her dampered spirits and

Her damaged self-esteem will be redeemed.

I DARE to believe she will regain what she's lost,

Recover what has been damaged:

I will see her dance again, laugh heartily,

Embracing every moment of her life again.

Pick up your feet, my sister, and welcome the morning:

You were meant for more than the box they've assigned you to.

Stand up straight, Magnificent Woman--and walk with the dignity

And respect and honor you have earned and deserve.