I’m staring into the eyes of a man

They are dark and deep

I see no indication that he was physically abused

No indication that he was molested

I see remorse for those who have passed

Yet pity seems such a foreign being to these eyes

As I peer deeper I see compassion and love

Warmth and understanding

No hatred, no anger, no bitterness

I watch them watch me and know their power

Those eyes are open even as they close

I see an invitation to enjoy what lies within

Further than the surface

Deeper than the skin

There is a sparkle in those dark brown eyes

So often covered in a layer of grey

For vision, for vanity

Not to hide the soul beneath them

I glance away and a thought arises

These are the eyes of a well adjusted man

The eyes that have known sorrow & pain

Yet they bask in joy & happiness

There in the reflection

Is a flicker of recognition

I see that these eyes belong to me

Ken Emmanuelli©2012