August 31st

“The Lord is my shepherd . . .” Psalm 23

the ache is like a black star
as the emptiness of my moments
collapses in on itself, yet
you refuse to let me walk alone.
when i think i cannot take another breath,
the Spirit steps in to help me.
i wander aimlessly, as if i have
lost my way, but Goodness traces
a labyrinth in the dust, so i will be able
to find my way out of grief’s wilderness.
the stones are sharper than knives
and the shadows are thicker than fog,
but i find Life holding out a chair
where a meal awaits, and there
are empty cups to catch all the tears
as they are transformed into hope.
Tenderness seems to trail after me
like a lost dog knowing the way home
and even in this Heartache Hotel
where i currently abide,
there is a thin place of grace,
not just for this moment,
but for as long as all the moments
may last.

© 2025 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman