Pandora’s Box

Inside my hand lies a beautiful gift
It was given to me by my Father
He said, “My child, this gift is yours
Treasure it like no other”

I drink in the beauty of this wondrous box
Adorned with diamonds and gold
The finest artisans showing their best
Of beauty, now mine to behold

I long for this gift, I am anxious to see
What is within these walls of pure grace
I anticipate madly, holding my breath
Expectant joy lighting my face

Perhaps a necklace of brilliant rare jewels
Or a ring for my dainty finger
Fine garments of silk to drape over my skin
Or riches to enjoy as I linger

“But wait,” says my Father, “there is only one thing
This box, you may never uncover
Until the day that I say it is right
What it contains is not yours to discover”

I grit in frustration for such beauty I see
I can imagine the mystery inside
Yet I am solemnly sworn to not open the lid
I promised Him when I lied

My determined face, frosty, aloof
I imagine being dazzled with jewels
My Father had left me alone with my box
Had He always been such a fool?

The moment was here, my fate now set
The time had come to unveil
I sat, held my breath, slowly opened the lid
And was shocked by a putrid gale!

The room turned to ash, the box to dust
As I stared with horrified eyes
I saw my reflection, the greed on my face
How could I be so unwise?

The demon before me cackled in mock
Tears slid down my face
The very phantom I was staring at
Was me, in unveiled disgrace

I saw myself laughing at me
Snakes slithering to seal my fate
They coiled their bondage ’round my waist

I screamed

It was too late

Easter Ellen

~ writing what won’t leave me alone until it is expressed