In Open Air

02 June 2026

https://poems.culturing.net/2026/06/02/in-open-air/

Through that door, into mystical grace,
having lavished myself with all praises, I find
an at-oneness surpassing all understanding,
the hollow parts fall away, and I'm full
of the hope of the universe, pulsing forever
through hearts big and small. I'm alive
with a life that demands introspection,
respect, and small dignities played out
before a crowd of peers. I will walk
before God, stand erect, and fear nothing,
not even inevitable death. Though I do fear
the shadow, I know that for now it retreats
and gives life its soft timbre, the darkness
that fills out the image with tension,
without which all falls apart.

Teach me something, remind me of pain,
but do also remember that hope springs eternal,
that life is not bad for longer than we can bear.
So go anywhere, do anything, be anyone, so long
as you find in your heart no remonstrance,
no doubting despair. You were there. I was there.
All was clear. Do remember. Become what your dreams
prepare, and walk freely, in open air.