a wish to talk. they were busy.
a wish to be free. they were angry.
a wish to tell stories. they were asleep.
a wish to be missed. they passed by.

a hope for a change. stagnation.
a hope for rest. time pushes on.
a hope for company. busyness speaks.
a hope for freedom. a cruel joke.

thus, arises

the need to pray,
the need to forgive,
the need to endure,
the need to release.

at the crossroads,

crossing my fingers,
crossing my heart,
steeling my mind,
falling apart.

when blood dissipates, and water floods the gates

that which is given can only be lost, but never be taken away