Between two cities a man named Ed sits
with his wife discussing grandchildren
and the bitter taste of sugarless tea

They laugh at how the waters flow
like the spirit – cool and easy
on their aging flesh

Across the waters, there are rocks
dangling above the surface
like a promise of a sermon
to the sinking dead

Ed makes a dinner without starches
kisses his bride upon her forehead
sings to their shared God, “How great thou art”

She smiles too, because the years are light
and every day has become a celebration
as she dances in her children’s eyes – and his.

“I will buy us a ship,” he says into her ear,
“imagine that, a big white ship.” she laughs.

the sunlight is warm on her face, the wind kind,
he tells her,”it is time for shade, you’re growing
pink.” They step inside again.

“Will we sail away, my darling,” she asks.
“We will sail away, my beloved,” he smiles.
“Through the straits, though the rocks …
“Through the straits, where are our hearts beat…
“Will Jonah come…
“Jonah will come, my love …
“Will we dive?”
“We will dive into the deep dark blue
and see together what is there”

Ed puts on the kettle for more tea
takes out two cookies, one for her
and one for him. Holds her hand
as the great good night embraces them
in their most delicious prayers.