it's a bit like a war

it’s a bit like a war
in some small desert land long forgotten
There was life before
innocence and everyday things
lying soft in memory
on the long side of a gaping wound chasm
Now there is pain and the recovery
known in great stories
but it’s not clean or ready for the movies
Breathing is hard, time infinitely relative
Bravery, though, was never shown on
comfortable couches
So I dream of a lion with compassion in his eyes
And the universe awakening in his roar


It’s a bit like a war
in some small garden long misplaced
There will be life after
thankfulness and favorite things
shimmering warm in anticipation
on the long side of a glass no longer dark

Now there is hope that does not disappoint

christmas

I don’t like myself
In winter
When angels and sinners sing
Of glory and clean things
I don’t understand

I curse in the silence
At darkness
When ghosts and memories haunt
Of family and bounty offered
I don’t remember

I fight a mercy
During quiet
When holly and ivy intwine
Of garland and home eternal
I can’t help but hope for