Love Poem: The Shadow and The Light
Kate Collinger Avatar
Written by: Kate Collinger

The Shadow and The Light

When we were young, your shadow took the form of a little girl 

A little sister to an older brother 

That ruled the world 

A shadow that endlessly followed you around 

Who thought her sibling didn’t touch the ground

Your shadow never left you alone

But she always made sure you felt at home 



Home became a different word

As we got older

We were partners in crime that lost a mother 

But we loved each other through our pain like none other



Sometimes you were more than annoyed

Sometimes your shadow didn’t let the boys be boys

But you always made sure to come back around 

Enduring tickle torture fights with mom on the ground 



As we aged and time flew by

(Even through the distance)

Your shadow stayed by your side

Fiercely admiring her brother’s courage 

Vulnerability and strength

He never backed down and went to any length 

To teach the shadow to face her darkness

And bring her back to light

As he led the way, she followed

And she fought with all her might



He taught her to pick herself up and brush off the dust

He taught her to take accountability for her choices - this was a must

He taught his shadow to stop trailing him behind

He taught his shadow to trust her heart and her mind



You see, there’s always a reason for the shadow  

The darkness needs a source

You have always been the leader, the pioneer, and the force



You have shared your light with countless others

Spreading joy just like your mother 

You’ve spent your life bringing those together 

With selfless love

You have been the tether

Between you and your shadow

Who will always be by your side

Inspired by a brother who never thought to hide



So, even if you are on your ninth life

I would have followed you through every one

Because you shine brighter than the sun 

In case you take a different form next time around

I know that every shadow needs light to be found