STRINGING PEARLS

Too often have 
I stooped 
To scoop

Words of love 
Tumbled too easily 
From men’s mouths

Scooped up and found 
River pebbles round 
And bright with souring
Spittle.

No more.

For now have I found 
Courage to discard

Such trite offerings 
With unwounded heart

Having learned the difference
Weighed true treasure

Here within my palm 
The smooth sweet shimmer,

Enduring nacreous glow

Precious offerings

Of a deeper heart.

Manuela Cardiga