Concept

Refining process with metals:

Fire is used to melt down a metal and separate out the impurities that ruin its value.

Refining process applied to life:

We experience various tests in our life to refine us.

God will turn up the heat by way of some life change or struggle, 

as an opportunity to purify us.

Just as metals are refined until they can reflect an image,

God refines us so his image is reflected in us. 

As we draw closer to him, we grow in trust to not fear the heat-

Flames are a powerful catalyst in propelling us forward towards our calling.

One single flame can light an entire room.

This concept, when applied towards our being,

Can inspire us to want our presence to have an impact on our environment.

People talk about dancing in the rain;

Judging by my self-destructive ways, 

I’ve been playing in the flames.

I haven’t always been this way.

First time, first heart break. 

I didn’t know how to handle the pain.

High school, starting to party days.

There were a lot of firsts in that, not just a cigarette.

Gave from the bottom of my heart, to the bed.

As life went by, my biggest regret-

Experimenting with ways to escape my mind.

We’re drawn to light, it’s the human eye.

Along with many things that we can’t explain why.

My solution and best form of therapy: 

Light one up.

But I was only hurting me.

I know ‘smoking is bad’, but not the feeling.

The action can’t be worse than my reasons.

I tried anything to fight the inner demons.

These ashes know my secrets.

It’s time to let go.

Of all my crutches and hidden sins, take a good look within.

There are bad habits I can’t seem to break, 

a list of character defects that I hate.

But I’ll admit, I know it’s time- throw it all into the fire.

As it burns, I’ll refine.

A new decision as I make the choice, 

to no longer ignite flames that can destroy.

But to rekindle an old flame, with who I once was.

Before the world hurt too much.

Still fascinated by fire, now I just carry a lighter 

Always in my pocket 

Thumb on the wheel, I love to spark it.

Hold the smoke.

You can only sweep so much under a rug

Until it begins to show.

As I set something new ablaze,

It’s the passion of purpose that’s within my soul.

Hopeful that it will spread through me:

The fire of love in my heart,

purification as I cleanse,

transformation as I grow.

The refining process starts within.

I’ll never forget where I’ve been.

Lost in the smoke, but never alone.

He reminds me I’ve always been whole.

Like a metal that’s been through heat & flames-

pure and reflective as it shines.

My heart continues to be refined.

In the fire, to be sober and clear was my desire.

No longer amongst smokey mirrors.

I can’t do this solo, please hold me close.

To God I pray.

Help me change my ways.

Last cigarette. Ashtray.

~ Carly Reed