Burning
Life is a burning log
In the beginning the log burns low
It starts off cool and quiet as it slowly warms up
Then it begins to change
It snaps and sizzles, little hiccups
But it keeps burning.
Occasionally it will be snuffed out
With a quick burst from a hose.
It is always sad when that happens
The fun had only just started
But usually it keeps burning.
Sometimes a log rolls over
The whole fire is changed
It must work its way from the bottom again
Struggling to bring back the heat
But it keeps burning
It grows into a roar of heat and flame.
It might light another log and they burn together
Making more heat, more growth
Sharing that warmth
Sizzling together
Its still burning
Finally the flames will fall
The log is blackened charcoal
It seems to be lifeless
But underneath
the glowing coals are hotter than ever
Burning.
-Michael Jensen