When my hard gray heart breaks

at the open wet bend,

you venture twenty steps to my glen.

With the plunk of a coin sunk

deep in my depths

where I’ve wept ten thousand tears,

your lips whisper wishes

in my skin.

Your knees hit the earth, head heavy

in your hands, as you plead

for the sweet taste of pears

once again, to witness the subtle weight

of the moon’s consoling pull, and to hear

the ocean’s primal roar.

As you sigh, these deep desires

palms traced with tears, lean

on my sturdy frame,

I only hope that I can grant them.

For now, I’ll hold

your fears, your dreams, your hunger—here

in my cavern

leaving ripples,

until you’re ready to bid

farewell

to your departing soul.

This was written by our contributing writer, Brittany Studer.