Pillar of Salt

I saw an ex the other day, she was the one who left
Years since she went away, tears have long been wept
We were going our separate ways, our eyes rose and met
Something there bade me stay, I slowed to pause and ….yet
 
I continued with my steady pace, did she do the same?
Every step created space and then I heard my name
It was no more than a whisper, I could have been mistaken
Even when I was with her it was all imagination
 
But certainly I should pause and revisit a life that’s not
One last look at what is lost…then I thought of the wife of Lot
 
(I mean, who wouldn’t?)  
 
Abraham convinced God that in the city of Sodom
there were a few good people to be saved
Two angels got the Lots, to safety brought ‘em
Then set fire to the unholy depraved
 
The angels warned Lot and the Mrs. (Biblical women rarely have names)
That it was forbidden to be a witness and to not look back to the past in flames
But she disregarded the sacred command perhaps she thought she wouldn’t get caught
She took one last glance upon her land then became…a pillar of salt
 
(makes perfect sense)
 
If she had just been blinded that would not seem odd
Everyone would be reminded: pay attention to the Word of God
But a pillar of salt is quite peculiar and what it brings to mind:
God is no longer a creative ruler but is in steep decline
 
Maybe he was a one-week wonder- that early work was pretty edgy
But then it’s just all lightning thunder and his later work is sketchy
Salt is just so random, just what was being said?
We can’t help but feel abandoned when artists lose the thread
 
What next?
Oh yeah, back to my ex
 
I’m not saying I heard a voice, no proclamation from above
But I woke up to a choice: easy illusion or fierce love
I sought love to be free of pain, I needed someone to need me
Our bright nights were full of rain – “Go away/never leave me”
 
I met my ex and did not brake, there is nothing that I lack
Love is in the steps I take and not in looking back
but not all history should be banned, we can learn from former faults
And sometimes meals are really bland and could use a little salt

 

Throughout November I am writing a poem a day in an effort to raise money for The Center for New Americans, an organization that is located in Western Massachusetts and does great work in acclimating our new citizens to their new homes.

You may help by going here.

If you appreciate my efforts and my work please share.

Also, most of you know I am moving to Oregon at the end of the year. Before I leave I will bedoing two shows.  Both will be in Amherst at the NACUL Center at 7:00 on November 30 and December 7. Proceeds will benefit The Center for New Americans.

I will be joined by these fine musicians: Joe Ricker, Andrew Atkin, Dave Haughey, Billy Klock and Dan Thomas.