Absolution

Skipping through fields or over sidewalk squares,

“Step on a crack, break your mother’s back”, she sings,

Running then diving behind trees and knolls,

He pretends to be a mighty warrior or dragon slayer,

The two grow in joy, gaining wisdom through innocent play.

But wisdom soon is as leaves in the wind,

Blown about and lost with the season,

They now plow through life with nary a care,

No thought for anything but fun and self.

Now looking back on years gone past,

Their mistakes stick in their memories,

Like peanut butter on the roof of your mouth,

Refusing to leave them so they look to be absolved,

They want to gain back the innocence once enjoyed,

Which they carelessly threw aside,

And they wish for absolution of those ills,

Committed against their fellow man.

Sadly, though, they soon realize,

That absolution can’t just be given,

By a man in a closet with a collar,

It comes with forgiveness and restitution,

And though it all cannot be set right,

It becomes easier to sleep at night.