Pearl

Cancer is the grit in my shell

constantly hurting the heart of my being.

So I endeavour to hide it,

to wrap it up,

to bury it amongst layers of better things.

Each pain, each worry another sharp edge

smothered by loving and being loved,

swaddled in wonder,

wrapped up in hope and dreams.

I look outwards, seeking beauty

searching for comfort.

And all the time, my pearl grows,

shining at my innermost.

But know this:

cancer did not make this pearl;

this pearl is

mine.