of mysteries –
the questions
sometimes more
the answers bear
to wonder what the reason
we were saved

unburdened
by forgiveness
grace we never earned
starry skies
to cleave us from the pain

beholding
to our knowing
of all we were to be
mercy for road
to rise above

dusty cowl
of muscadine
wild their vapor stings
given ease
where yesterday
we loved

. . .