Amends

When I see it, finally,

the scope of my

misunderstanding,

it’s breathtaking

and there’s no escaping

the grief

for harm done.

How many times

have I regarded

another person—

a whole sovereign

child or man—

as in need of fixing?

How many times

have I thought,

I’ll save you

with my love?

So noble,

generous,

selfless.

Oh, the ocean

of arrogance

I’ve swum in.

Here’s the hard

bright truth:

the only one

my love

can save

is me

and not by

rescue or pity

but a gentle

keeping company

no matter what.

I say this

simple prayer

to myself

and everyone else:

I’m sorry.

Forgive me.

Thank you.

I love you.

Clean now

and clear.

None of us

is broken.

Not one.

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Photo by Jan Canty