i was a lump of coal when first we met. i was thirteen, just reaching to see beyond the family walls. You were my friend from another dimension, my secret companion in wonder. through these many years You pressed upon me, impelling me inward & slowly increasing Your pressure until i became strong, bright, able to endure. my darkness slowly changed to clear light. You then carefully cut & faceted the diamond You made of the coal of my heart until, in my elderhood, i became a rainbow & gave hope & encouragement to those near me. You never relented nor gave up on me, continually shaped me. now i can sit in darkness & yet shine with light, for You have filled me with Your downpouring loving light, Lord Shiva. You have made me a diamond in Your hidden treasure box, a fragment of Your own majesty & glory. i am a star in Your celestial constellation; i am a blessing in Your gift basket for humanity. thank You, Lord Shiva, for the darkness that makes the light irresistible.
