Reflections

She looked down at her henna covered hands
The beautiful intricate patterns symbolizing married bliss
Mother had worn her finest, her eyes shiny with tears
All the curious ones had their answer
The daughter was finally being given away in matrimony

She looked around with a small sigh
Finding his eyes, she exhaled slowly
The years of solitude and incompatibility
Led her to him, the wonderful gentle man
The ceremony was about to begin, along with the rest of her life

The other side of the mirror held another truth

She ruffled her white gown playfully
The nerves have quelled into a clear certainty
Maybe there was unforgiving aching
Perhaps she had broken the rules and wandered without caution
She still felt calm and ready

Walking down the aisle she marveled at the beauty of the orchids
She glanced lovingly at the two empty chairs that were meant for her parents
Looking up she found her bride and smiled their secret smile
It might have taken forever, heartbreak and exile
As the minister began, she was thankful that she had the courage to want more