A holy touch

Ragged scuffing - the dragging of my shoe against the concrete

matching the chalk against board in my head.

Needling wind, arid crackles of skin

overbearing stuffiness of sardines in the train.

Helpless airpods escaped into the gutter-

a silent scream of pain was uttered.

Keys in a jangling battle against the door,

back against the wall - couldn't take it anymore.

Waft of a sweet scent filled my lungs -

Velvet eyes met mine,

fiery smile on red wine,

kitchen table against red-white silk,

a deer in headlights - I catch my breath;

sweet and tart the plums between my lips

rushed and helpless, I close the distance.

Sensing urgency in my demeanor

gentle fingers pulled me closer,

"Breathe", a calm pulsed through the air 

A touch on my skin, whispers against my ear

did more for my peace than years of prayer.

I could weep in its embrace and wash all my pain,

I knelt at the altar to offer up my sins.

Loud and holy cries of healing

cleansed my soul of the heaviness it bore

a gaze of love met my stare,

smooth were the hands that put me in theirs.