the penumbra

let us imagine, for a moment –
hope

not a grand, gleaming thing
but a primitive vision,
as old as breath,
that makes the whole world beautiful.

even in the smaller, uglier moments
when the shadows stretch too long,
an invitation waits.

this penumbra follows across all creation.
i step into it, wild –
with palms wide open

then glance back,
wondering if these silly daydreams
have left a mark.