Perfectly Refined

Poetry serves as a powerful outlet for me to express profound emotions, convey stories that resonate with my soul, and connect with life on a deeper level. While my poetry may not always adhere to traditional rules or "poetry etiquette," I believe that authenticity is paramount in the moment of creation. I often write freely and later revisit my work, refining it through the lens of established forms and techniques. This process often results in two or three revisions for each piece. This poem explores the journey of transformation—a theme that reflects the Christian belief in being refined into the person God intended us to be. Below, you'll find one of my original works that embodies this theme. You can also explore additional poetry and prose in the tab above. Both the refined and remastered version and this original can be found on the poems tab. Enjoy!

Perfectly Refined

You were once silver, caught in the fire.

Refined until you saw my reflection back.

Heated until the top dazzled and sang my glory.

You needed to be refined first like silver

So I could show you who you truly are.

You were once a forest, caught in a blaze.

Refined until only fertile ground was left.

Burned till all things seemed desolate and destroyed.

You needed to be refined second like the woods

So you could grow hope for more to come.

You were once gold, caught in the furnace.

Refined until melted and pure.

Heated until no impurity of your past showed.

You needed to be refined through like gold

So I could take away what was taking your true beauty away.

Now, you are pure silver, cooled in my shape.

The shape I molded specifically for you.

So shiny that my beauty reflects all you encounter.

Just as I always intended.

Now, you are a new seedling, free to flourish in the fertile soil.

The exact place I planted you in and the fire only cracked your shell.

Stretching your roots in the hope the ashes left behind.

Just as my plans always had for you.

Now, you are pure gold, stronger than ever.

Crafted to the most valuable form of you there could be.

A perfect reflection and masterpiece that makes me proud.

Just as I always wanted.

My child, listen to me.

The fire destroys but it also grows

It hurts but it also heals.

You were once in it because I wanted you to reflect me,

I wanted you to be who you were made to be.

You are perfectly refined.

June 2023