BE READY

A prayer will help you find
your voice in the crowd.
Be ready for what it tells you.

Tomorrow the sun will rise.
Be ready for what it will show you
about our world.

Our elbows may graze.
Be ready for
unexpected clouds.

Turn to the gate and leave your message there.
Be ready for what God sends—
even if it is a sword for your own head.

Pin your heart out on your sleeve.
Be ready for silence that is neither
ominous nor reassuring.

The hills will become barren.
Be ready to feel the dryness yourself—
it may be long, but it won’t be permanent.

(December 9, 2008)