— of a world preparing for war,

collecting hate as rain forms a pool

in the slightest depression of slickrock.

1

Invite the world in.

Grasp the world’s fear

roll it in your hand

until the edges smooth,

then return to the world

that which comforts any hand,

a blue gray river stone.

2

Take the poison, chew it

like the Inuit woman chews seal skin.

Chewing takes time, a winter undertaking.

We have plenty of darkness.

3

Witness.

4

Catch the rawness and place it next to your heart

in the pocket you have sewn just for this purpose.