AS WOMEN DO

Jars on heads and hips,

We walk in the dawn.

Spears won’t fear our quiet huddle,

Here to tend a body.

As women do.

But weapons have fallen in the lilies,

The stone is anchored to the side—

The cave looms open.

We cry out. Clasp hands.

As women do.

His body’s gone.

The sun gleams on the horizon.

We shield our eyes.

Call our loss into the void.

As women do.

But then—

Strangers, coursing with light.

Voices, sure and strong.

We run, sandals raising dust,

Bear witness.

As women do.