Reclaiming Joy

In the shadow of silence, a melody stirs,

A laugh long forgotten, but still, it recurs.

The sun kisses scars where the darkness once lay,

And whispers, “You’re worthy of light every day.”

The smallest of sparks ignites a new flame,

A dance in the rain, unburdened by shame.

Each step feels unsteady, yet stronger it grows,

A rhythm of healing that only you know.

The weight you once carried begins to take flight,

Unveiling a world painted golden and bright.

Joy isn’t loud; it’s a soft, steady beat,

A hand reaching out, a heart that repeats:

“The pain you have weathered won’t dim what you’re due,

For joy, fierce and quiet, belongs now to you.”

Porter Pfrenger is a 26 year old poet and writer from Arkansas. He lives with his two partners, their two kids, and an amount of animals on a small homestead. Outside of writing, he enjoys crocheting and singing Broadway musicals with his family.