Fire

Do not pull yourself from the fire too soon.
That heat has work to do on you,
and the Master Forger knows far better
than metals she is pounding
into plowshares
and amulets
and swords.

Do not curse the flames that strengthen,
that make shiny and sharp
the dull iron of the heart.
That Master forger is working, pounding
night and day,
to turn you into something useful
and beautiful
and strong.