Friday, September 11, 2015

Blessed Descent



author's note:

Because we live with the knowledge that we will die, perhaps all humans are, to some degree, courageous.


BLESSED DESCENT

When the overseers scanned our group
they could see I was the one
trying hardest not to be seen--
the one most afraid
that the earth beneath his feet
was only cloud.

They realized I needed
this trip--this ordeal--
more than anyone else.

Now as they turn the crank
my little basket slowly lowers
into the deep ravine
and its echoing bass murmur:

down there
I will explore for all of us
and with luck, return to report
on what delights and terrors exist
in such a precarious place.

Though I feel anxious and small
my chest thrills with silent celebration
as the darkness deepens:

at present
I despise my weakness
but at the bottom
I'll have the chance
to find my strength...


© 2015, Michael R. Patton
My War for Peace: the book

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