trastevere, il primo agosto

reveal to me
what i left behind
19 years ago
presented with choices
i did my best
to remain intact
a battle
insignificant to most
gave to me
courage
bravery
gratitude
reaching into the coffers
i request a large withdrawal
that depletes my accounts
as i beg for mercy
and ask the universe
please, conspire for me
that i may be worthy
to carry a message
so sacred of love
eternal torches burn
consecrated waters flow
and the unknown awaits