Closing Eyes
What do we see when we earnestly look?
Sighted or blind, we still perceive.
One day our eyes will close and not open again.
Today, however, is "an open and shut case".
We opened them to a new day of color and beauty.
Tonight we will shut them, new memories drawn in.
Our eyes not only perceive, but are also perceived.
I can look into your eyes and perceive your thoughts.
You can look into my eyes and do the same.
At times we will see tears of joy, and of sadness;
at other times, eyes wide in amazement and wonder.
We search with our eyes for things lost or hidden.
We view events around us, seeking paths of escape,
or designated entrances to places we are seeking.
They open wider to let diminished but available light in.
They squint when the available light is overpowering.
With their connections to our brain, they seek out,
simpler, better ways of performing our daily tasks,
and warning us of perils and dangers to be avoided.
They cruise the pages of books, forms to be filled,
controls to be operated, paths we seek, places to climb.
We use them to cook, to shave, to play our games,
and to participate with others, as well as see reflections.
At times we use them for the pleasure of sunsets,
the beauty of flowers, the recognition of loved ones.
Their loss is not the end. Some never had their use.
Others turn to other heightened senses to augment.
When fortunate enough, they see those gathered around,
when finally the earth adventure ends with closing eyes
. ________
Copyright 2024 Demas W. Jasper All rights reserved.
