The Face In The Mirror – Irene Giles 21st December 2018

I looked in the mirror and what did I see? An elderly lady looking at me. Her face was quite wrinkled, her hair brownish-grey “Whoever can you be?” I heard her say. It couldn't be me for I am young and strong And full of ambition - What can have gone wrong? I'm only eighteen! I'll never grow old! But we cannot prevent it, the years will unfold. I look again despite my fears Into those eyes I decide to peer. I look in the mirror and what do I see? Eyes that quietly smile at me. I see love and much laughter, disaster and tears, A face that has passed through so many long years. There have been times of great sorrow And fear for tomorrow. Yet the wrinkles are smile lines, so good to behold And they tell of great peace – more precious than gold. Yes, there's a quiet and a calm, no bitterness there. The grief left its mark, but it's better to share the love that one has with those full of care. To others in trouble I stretch out my hand To tell them that I know;I do understand. To share in their sorrow and help them to know That time will heal pain, and comfort will grow. They will receive grace as they look on the face of a Saviour so dear, who drives away fear. New life he imparts as He gladdens our hearts. I look in the mirror and what do I see? A face that is calm, a face that's at peace. There's a beauty found there that no art can release. The eyes gently smile as they gaze back at me There's more character there, greater depths I can see. Oh how happy I am that lady is me.