crucifix gestures

when hills are flat,

when rivers in perfect health

freed of sediment,

mingle with the groom,

when the full circle of moon

takes the bride,

bedding the silent stars

the resilient earth,

when wind marks willow,

a crucifix gesture towards

a marketable sky,

I pray the daily prayer of

wooden faith and

early morning

touch.

when sand splays like frost

and details cracks in my skin,

when rocks as big as lover’s rooms

roll to thunder

foretelling the wet night,

when wind marks willow,

disease blends,

food forgives,

crosses beat the dark

away from my face,

I pray the daily prayer of

dark believing

and early morning,

smell.

when lightening fences the prairie,

and direction has given way

to a small ribbon leading in to the night,

when the wedding feast has been scattered,

and all that’s left to do is to

clean and repair.

when the bed is broken and unmade.

when wind marks willow,

sleep deserts,

knowledge ignores,

I pray the daily prayer of

of minor belief,

and walk away from the table,

a crucifix gesture.