Look Deeper

teetering atop a pillar
a flawed vessel
cracked and worn by time
at first glance 'tis merely aged
broken
look closer
see the surface cracks in the gloss
decoration hastily applied
layers added here and there
by various owners over time
spidery lines spreading in patterns
see the deeper cracks and chips
evidence of a life
proof that it was used
maybe abused
perhaps loved
both
some have been repaired
some remain bestowing character
personality
the vessel is still useful
whole
though discarded by most
priceless to some
who can see its value as treasure
yet it teeters atop a pillar
threatening to fall
threatening to break
even if it shatters
razor shards on stone
it may be lovingly reconstructed
soft hands
gentle heart
'twill be cracked and scarred
mostly whole
and always there is a chance
that it will be caught
and cushioned mid-fall