lace curtains spiral patterns on the floor
mimicking breezes
sending prayers to the saints who can save her life

for RB

Paint her a saint
To stand by her side
Righteous & unafraid
A sum of all prayers
Wavering curtains
Veil the pain in her eyes

Regret forms like foam on the sea

Paint her a saint
With anchors to hold her
Tethered & grounded
Through life’s torrid swells
Teach her to weather
Storms that she runs from

Her body lists left when she sings

Paint her a saint
Covered with flowers
Vibrant & benevolent
Settle her sullied spirit
With blooming white zinnias
Wreathed and weaved into wings

She knows she’s alive when she bleeds

Brenda Warren 2017