Eyes of My Ancestors
Monday, December 10, 2007 at 12:16 PM 
My quiet time continues to bring more and more new results. The most recent in the form of a poem prompted by Christine @ Abbey of the Arts. Part of me hesitated to even post this here, because it feels a bit melancholy. However, there was something very powerful in writing it that gave me a new way to look at things.
When I think of my ancestors, I am reminded of stern faces and more often than not words of criticism rather than kindness. Maybe it was due to the serious times they were raised in or possibly the influence of the Bible belt, but there never felt like there was much, if any, room for play or imperfection.
In penning this reflection, however, I became very aware of the many dimensions of these ancestral women . While their words may have stung me deeply, I believe I can bring something new to the world by breaking their ancient patterns of hiddenness and propriety. I pray that through the realization of my own dreams and forgiveness, these women can be honored in new and glorious ways.
hollow & vacant. cold & elusive. barren of love.
are they my eyes? my fate?
do those eyes still watch & judge?
or do they weep for their veiled dreams?
might I be their eyes today?
might I see things differently & shed grace where once was derision?
might their eyes be washed clear by my tears?
the eyes of my ancestry.
are they watching now?
were they ever?
photo by christine.
Poetry, Relationship, Women
Reader Comments (7)
Wow, Lucy. This is great, powerful stuff.
Powerful, indeed, and redemptive...
powerful and redemptive...love those words from sue & revanne! thanks for stopping by!
Your words blow me away, Lucy.
I believe they are still with us - nestled forever in our hearts, in a warm comforting breeze ... and they watch over us and love us, no matter what. After all, they are "in the know" if you know what I mean.
Lucy -- I'm so glad you decided to share ... exhaling to take it all in. Leaves me speechlessly pondering ...
Hugs and blessings,
dream--i am curious and hopeful when i read your words "in a warm comforting breeze"...and wonder how i can feel the love in the breeze?
storyteller--'exhaling to take it all in' so paradoxical...i love it!
Hi Lucy,
The poem is excellent! I too struggle with some of the generational things that have been handed down by the women folk...it's incredible the strength of feelings and issues that can carry over to the next generation (some of them extend back to the Am. Civil War -not kidding) You're right, things were not easy, people had certain beliefs with class, culture and religion.
I'm glad you're taking a stand to break the cycle, as am I...for the next generation's sake!!! :)))