For Those Trying Too Hard

Don't be harsh with yourself.

The oar hits a rock and splits.

We find a branch offered by

the storm and carve another.

The tongue hits a falsehood

and burns. We baptize our lips

slowly in the truth and learn to

say yes, one more time. Even

with our eyes closed, the sun

is near. Even with our wounds

healing, the heart, hooded like

a falcon, is ready to fly.