it took ashes...
for me to draw
a picture of your living
in black and white...

yet containing all
the colors of your being...

it took ashes...
for me to lay down
all my wants and desires,
and the fear of losing you...

it took ashes...
for me to quit pretending
that this kingdom
is invincible...
and this island will remain...

it took ashes...
for me to taste
death's lips and
still surrender to
each naked tick of living...

it took ashes...
for me to be
honest with myself...
to let go of the reins,
and stand free

on the shore of tomorrow!

it took ashes...

Eric Cockrell

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/ashes-44/