TILLING THE EARTH

Lawrence Miles

I was following the conversation

when you were accused

and the mob formed instantly


I knew you were innocent and said nothing

Chose no side believing that

Washing my hands as Pilate was enough


I returned months later

seeing the lone seedling in the scorched earth

reaching for the sunlight 


That seedling gave inspiration

and I said to you

β€œI would like to try again if you will let me”


and you did


The earth is bountiful again with a restored sky

and I cannot imagine

who I would be if I had not tried


The mob has dispersed

taking away their platform of lies

while I stand in silent gratitude


Thank you for showing me

the earth will always heal itself 

if given the chance


I will do my best not to let you down again.

Lawrence Miles is a poet living in White Plains, NY.  His work can be read at lawrencemiles.substack.com.