heavy

these blooms burst open,

their beauty undeniable as

complex layers fan out,

demanding attention

but they are heavy, too.

gravity pushes, wind and rain

pull them down, glorious

faces pressed into wet pavement.

all of creation groans,

image-bearers cry out

under the weight of

hateful oppression.

gravity pushes, those

entrusted with power abuse

it. beautiful faces pressed

into wet pavement.

breath stolen. life taken.

daughters and sons aching,

shaking, angry, afraid. over

and over, carrying that weight.

Lord, have mercy. 

Lord, come quickly.