I have passed before the thousand eyes in church
but it is with the moon I hold
a staring contest
losing again.
 
But the moon takes pity and lifts
this mistrust stroking
it gently.
 
We’ve done this before
the moon and I when
 
I’ve tossed that splintered hope line
sighting it real good
watching it hook hard
a yank to make sure it was tight but
it does fool me at times and
 
the moon cups 
this mistrust stroking
it gently.

© 2006 Carmen Eichman

To drink with you would be divine,
but really is forbidden;
for that is when the right wing guards
of rationale sleep deeply,
and I can reach the cell block key
and do what I would want to,
 
those things that bring the flesh to life;
the Spirit would be quickened
to quickly elevate in prayer
and report me for escaping.
 
So better not to drink with you
but keep thoughts locked within. 
 
For though I do obey the guards
I think too much of Him.

© 2006 Carmen Eichman

originally appeared in Spring Board Journal