Unbending

Contributed by V.M. Tackett

As I push my toes deep into the cool sand, I sit on the beach listening to the rhythmic crashing of the ocean waves. A slight chill runs through my body as a cool sea breeze blows across the sandy shore.

Gazing out across the vast blue sea, the sun sits, glowing softly on its horizon. As the light begins to fade all around me, I am covered in a blanket of loneliness. My life, up to this point has been marred with continuous failings in love.

But then, I met Annie, and it was the first time my life had meaning. She filled the void in my heart that has been empty for so long. But yet, I feel I have lost her due to my selfish arrogance, and spiteful words that I had said.

She took me as I was, and she loved me for who I was. There was no need to pretend, but now I feel I have lost a piece of my soul. As I sit here contemplating my life’s worth, I feel a hand gently touch my shoulder.

As I look around in astonishment, I see my beloved Annie kneeling beside me. With tears in her eyes and a radiant smile on her face, I turn around and take her into my arms.

Her warm touch, her sweet smell completes my world, my life, my soul, and as I whisper “I’m sorry” into her ear, I feel her warm tears on my skin as she pulls me in closer. I knew at that moment; our unyielding love could never be broken.

Trapped in a Cage

Contributed by Charles Dean Walker

Trapped in a cage, no escape.
Tears beneath the skin.
Ceaseless pain.

Lord show me the light.
Help to release me.
Is Heaven real?

It is dark down here.
Savior, do prayers reach you?
Are you there?

Is it dust to dust?

Either way it will end.
Have I failed you?

To have honesty.
I am trapped yet again.
Am I speaking to the air?

If there are ears,
does the owner care?