Face to the Fire

The light is warm, inviting

My feet falter, hoping, considering

Is this light kind?

Is it faithful?

Is it just?

I ponder these questions as I take a step

Wondering if it will burn me whole

If it will scar, or if it will heal

Will I be warm, too?

My skin is hot, blistering

What if I change my mind?

I step back

Cold

Step again

Shivering

Two bounds forward

I am thawed

If the light is cruel, too hot for I, why am I tepid?

I throw myself, face to the fire, feet to the frigid

There is no other side for I

Only warm, blinding, blistering light