Prayer

What if prayer is not
holy words arrowed toward
some sovereign being
close as sound and distant as light?

What if prayer is not
a list
begging, praising, cajoling
Dear God
for current desires and eternal rest?

What if prayer is not
waiting empty in black emptiness
breathing, sighing, breathing
no more aware of god than
the wing of a bird
is startled by air?

What if prayer is
shed free of intent
rid of persuasion
empty of void?

What if prayer is
my burst of passion--
anger, joy, justice, lust--
my burst of passion
overwhelming me
overwhelming me
body and soul?

From A Hermit Holds My Heart
Ellen Porter
Benetvision