-- The Gaps of Time --

by John Herlihy

Behold the gaps of time into which we fall,

A prelude, an interlude, to hold us in thrall.

The pattern of our day suddenly suspended,

The rhythm of night time suddenly upended.

The dying day as bleeding sunset to behold,

The moment a flower bud begins to unfold.

Falling into the darkening depths of despair,

Seeking the illuminated heights during prayer.

Realizing the extent of what we don’t know,

Touched by the chill serenity of falling snow.

Time put on hold as we sit around and wait,

Wait patiently as we stand before the gate.

An arrival that occurs as a promise kept,

The finality of a departure when we wept.

First descent, then recovery, however brief,

Bewildered by the miraculous, then relief.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Saturday 18 November 2023