i don’t care much
whether humans have souls
or if death transforms us
heaven, hell,
and the in between
don’t concern me
i must atone for my original sin
and this sinner pays penance
doubt and self-recrimination
i seek the solace of breezy days
in early spring when the crocus
pushes through fallen leaves
and reaches for the sun
so i toil purgatory days
struggle for the light
i’m redeemed when
i find myself free
of me
