I wrote this poem about 5 years ago for a friend of mine after she went through a horrible breakup. I think it applies to everyone. There are many things in life we don't have control over, but we can choose how we deal with them. It's hard, but possible. I have to remind myself of this every day! Take with it what you wish.

Relationships are like candles.
Every time you build a relationship with someone,
you light another candle in your life.
You have the power to blow a candle out,
if you decide to.
A candle can burn until the wick burns out.
Some candles burn longer than others.
Wind can blow a candle out,
but you can relight it.
If rain or water falls on a candle,
it will make the candle’s flame disappear.
The candle cannot be lit successfully until it dries.
A candle will melt down to wax through time.
It doesn’t go away; it is still visibly there.
You can let the candle’s remains stay,
or you can put another candle in its place.

Candles come in all shapes, colors, and sizes.
However, what matters is the way
the candle makes you feel in its presence.
If the scent is too distracting,
you will keep a distance from it.
But, the candles that bring you
peace and tranquility by their
soft, relaxing, and welcoming scents
are the type of candles we all need
in every kind of relationship
we encounter in our life.

The object in life is to keep the candle burning
in our relationship with God, our family,
friends, and loved ones.
Sometimes when problems arise,
the candle’s flame will go out.
But is our decision to leave it that way,
or to try to relight it.

Sometimes, when you try to light a candle,
it will not light right away.
But, with patience and time,
You can often make the candle light again.
If it does not, with strength and perseverance,
you can start over, light another candle,
and enjoy the happiness it brings.