Of the quickened mind, the renewed will,
God’s work that we might embrace Christ,
the girl was curious.
Her recently pierced ears were fitted with delicate pearls.
As to time, it was without question, but the duration—
How long did it take? she asked there in the makeshift
classroom. Without thinking, I said,
The hairpin turn to dark, the onset of night
when streetlights flare and shadows fall
surrendering—that interlude.
Adults began making their way in for refreshments.
I was partly relieved thinking of all the condiments.
Mostly, that honey requires no refining of any kind,
keeps at room temperature, is used as a simple
sweetener.

Ordained Servant Online, February, 2023.