In the Midst

Two blades entered and pierced flesh

And, like an offering, red pooled from beneath

my palm.

my back had stiffened like a robed man following a

dark conviction.

Then the pain came like hammer and nail.

Thump. Thump. Thump.

Someone was at the door

standing frozen as stained glass.

She bundled me in her arms and ran down the stairs.

Thump. Thump. Thump.

Like a sacrificial lamb, she placed me on the chair.

I closed my eyes and let my tears

baptize me.