Renewal

Mothballed and hidden away

under layers of dust and must-infused blankets,

in a confined, air-tight space lies

her boxed-up wedding dress

with its hand-made folds of pearl and lace.

But who’s that opening the window?

Letting in the air?

Allowing a lavender breeze to weave its way

through her lonely corridors?

Giving her a sudden shiver?

Who’s that shaking her dress from its secret place,

carrying it into the garden, under open sky,

and pegging it out on the washing line?

She watches silently as it billows, white and magnificent.