From the Heart

Nick & Gnarly went to town

to show their pretty hearts

When they got there all could see

the differences between ‘em

Nick’s was smooth and oh, so plump,

The people ooohed and aaaahed

Surely there had never been 

A heart as glistening pure

Unscathed, unblemmished, soft, it truly was a marvel

Unbowed, and upright Nick’s youthful pride apparent

He strutted, preened, he winked and twinkled

Puffed from adoration

All the while o’l Gnarly smiled; wistful full he waited

For Nick to finish his parade, time grew ripe, Gnarly took the stage

Notice for your viewing pleasure this scarred and sacred heart

This here gash, the one that goes from bottom up to top

Is where I felt the stab of love that when lost made my heart stop

And this whithered bit that barely beats is where I kept my child

When we lost her, she took that part, so now, I’ve half a heart

The stories written in this old heart could fill a book that’s thick

And when you’ve done with reading it, you’re bound to learn the trick

That love is worth the battering that life worth living gives

That love - full hearted love - that’s filled with life’s full passion

Will trump the prettiest clothes we’ve learned to call full fashion

The people paused and held their breath, they looked from Nick to Gnarly

All who favored one over t’other silently moved beside him.

Bit by crowding bit they chose to side on the side of beauty

When all had chosen, surprise reigned as all were gathered 'round Gnarly

The people learned a lot that night, they learned to value love

Nick’s heart got it’s first full nick, and he swore to gather more... 

The nicks of time and living life give loving hearts their beauty

Nick and Gnarly contested theirs and each fulfilled his duty.

If you should meet them some day hence, be sure to ask to see them

Hearts of breath-taking and hallowed architecture