Stone Placed in Palm Before Dawn

I place a smooth stone
in the center of my palm
before I walk
as a reminder of the place of love
from which I come.

The gritty surface of her cool skin
will guide her belly skillfully
onto the waiting partner
to balance and hold that sturdy structure
where sanctuary begins.

They pray together, embracing under the sun,
as their exact selves—
no pressure to be anything
but the vessel collecting wisdom
in the small spaces chipped into the hardness
like truth always manages to do.

Hard won reward
is the act of kindness they offer each other
in the quiet of this spirit place
and the eyes, naturally, stay open
to watch every moment bloom
on the alter of the soul.

The safe harbor of this beautiful garden refuge
is enough to give strength and courage
to the rest of each cacophonous day.