Reflection of Self

I have taken pen in hand
in hopes of a letter to command,
to forge in some degree
a testament to my reality

Dear Self... I begin...
not sure of name, of where or when
I realized the truth of you and me...
so I'll toss this pen of formality.

I have talked to you before
never introduced were we
as there was no need
we knew all secrets, kept them
within hidden places, whispering
of them only when solitude marked
our meeting.  I have not always been
kind to you, dismissing your strength.
your dignity, your ability to guide me
when I would not be guided, your choice
to keep me honest when the simpler path
would have led me to deceit and shame.
Always you were my champion, though
your praise often fell upon a heart not
comfortable with accolades and triumphs,
content to believe in every imperfection
bleeding into my soul.  You gained wisdom
through the life I lived, reminding me when
needed of these things I knew but sometimes
forgot... conveniently.
You were my friend and still are
though I sometimes thought
of you as an enemy...
but you never gave up on me, never allowed
me to give up on you. 

And I wonder why it has taken me
so long to say...
you are my being and inward reflection,
my heart and soul,
my yesterday and my tomorrow...
you are my SELF
and I thank you for molding
me into who I am.

With utmost respect,
Me

2011