Mussel Shells
Inspired by Karen McRae’s Shell Games
Washed up with the flotsam and jetsam,
nestled against the gravel along the shore-
some tiny, translucent and tender as babies fingernails,
bright and smooth, newly born.
Others dark and rough, exteriors
striated from years of water and wind,
pock marked and peeling,
treated harshly by the worlds elements.
An arduous existence inscribed with each line,
etched in every deep furrow.
Yet unfolded, a dull gloss and shine
Signifying the years of thoughtful calcium carbonate,
Lustrous nacre pearlized hidden treasure,
Building an interior life of light-
Years of experience growth wonder-
An example of a life well lived.
Kathleen G. Everett @ 2012
thecourseofourseasons 
Hi Kathleen. I like ‘building an interior life of light’. The whole poem is a statement about long life and the ups and downs. Nice metaphor! Jane
Thanks so much, Jane. Karen’s photos inspired me – the shells were just beautiful.
Hi Kathleen, “Building an interior life of light…” a beautiful poem! Ellen
Thanks, Ellen. Was inspired by the draw and shoot blog by Karen McRae – her photography is just gorgeous. Hope you are having a beautiful spring day! K
I admire Karen’s work too!
Thanks…
Wonderful poem Kathleen! Thank you for such a lovely tribute.
Love the last four lines especially, so beautiful!
So glad you liked the poem, Karen! Thanks so much, K
“Lustrous nacre pearlized hidden treasure,” I love this Kathleen! Nacreous/nacre is a fantastic word. 🙂
Thanks, Stacey – I still go back to read your ‘Bees’ poems – love ’em! K
Thank you! That makes me so happy! 😀 x