The Family Prayer

Poetry; Standalone

Molded crumbs burrow between lifted floors,
Hidden unlike the dirt under gnawed-on
Nails of the naive. Blood stains the corners
Of our bible pages as hands gather around the
Table to burry sin under submissive prayers 

You knew the house was burning down

Shattering frames reopen the wounds of
Our soles, torn wallpaper baptized in
Bourbon, you keep serving mashed peas
As he delivers us from evil, forgiveness
For crying over cold food you hand
Over in calloused penances. Supper
Goes until we are all blessed with bruises,
Repeating scriptures over cracked china

You knew the house was burning down

Favorite shades of red wine paint your lips
Sealing an attempt to confess while cigarette 
Smoke kisses our tears. Watching you fix 
Polished pearls when he brings the flame 
Of the Holy Spirit to our skin. Dusting the 
Ashes off your new dress, coughing at the smoke,

You knew the house was burning down