Speak the Word

In the reckoning of my voice with learning to sing,
I stumble near the precipice of truth.

Though I don't fall into the churning
of waters that boil and could easily take me under,
I am changed in these solitary days.

My walking has been so heavy.
The yoke has been formed to my strong shoulders
and a back that is not afraid of working.

And yet, if I could open my mouth
and let the notes of joy that wait in the cave of my throat
fly free of this silence with music so sweet,

the Divine would speak the word
with quiet prayer
and the flowing water
would be the rush
of abundant thanksgiving.