Seven years of stillness have passed
and now my full mouth opens wide,
spilling language symbolic mixed
with images that cannot be
misinterpreted.

I will speak and life will listen,
for I have held my tongue too long,
retreating to silence in hurt,
dismay, deference, respect and
a wish to be dead.

So, hear me; heed this warning bell.
My intention is to speak truth,
dispel all manner of falsehood
you have blown in four directions
on abhorrent wind.

I do so not to wound or hurt
you, nor to save myself. Rather,
I release this message to heal
gash in soul of humanity
(do my part at least)

that threatens to undo us all:
bleeding thing called community.
God has pried open pursed lips and
separated teeth clenched, whispered,
“Be silent no more.”

I bit my tongue, refused to speak,
begging for a little more time
for you to open your eyes, see.
I will confess, I had hoped for
a happy ending.

But I, master of mystery,
might have realized that my life’s
experience must embody
such ambiguity so that
my words will ring true .

Please know it’s not too late to find
blessed reconciliation.
Though now you want nothing to do
with me, perhaps one day you will.
I will be here still.