xv.

veins are cast
beyond the glass,
the candle
burning within;
flickering branches

traverse thought
and smoke.
i linger where
shadows lie—
ghost of a ghost.

in the depths
the question waits;
silent as embers,
more patient than time,
the answer wakes.

i am illusory,
the gnawing pit
within us all.
to see clearly,
please embrace

the subtle melding
of shadow 
and flame;
holy union, 
our Wholeness eternal.

lex