2 Poems

One Particular Prayer – by Patricia Curtiss

I have run from folly, to fantasy, from feeling,

To be the perfect girl who is expected.

I have sought to please in obedience and kneeling

In prayer, always trying to stay connected.

But always afraid to pray one particular prayer.

I’ve been good out of fear of pain,

Hoping God would send sunshine instead of rain.

I like things safe, I like things calm.

I like things comfortable, like a balm.

I am numb.

Always afraid to pray one particular prayer.

My heart is like some crusted thing

Held tight by walls held high.

I’m afraid what pain might bring.

I don’t want to know what it means to cry.

“Lord, break me.”