Scented candles

Jasmine scented candles

smell like hope

like new home, something of my own

and lately everything feels like

my own, like hope

With every new scented candle

comes new memories

more hope and love

and I wonder if I had just stopped

every so often

to smell the candles

would I be the person I am today

all the skin and sinew that I shed

to be reborn with the curiosity of a newborn

sights and smells and feelings

are all so precious now

I don't worry about who I would be

anymore

I know she's going to be okay

even if home isn't where home is anymore

or the path ahead gets shrouded in more uncertainty

I know she will light a candle

to smell and see

take a few deep breaths

and go to sleep