CALL ME BELOVED

take all those worrisome bits that collect
and multiply, like lint in your pockets –
give them to me – they are familiar
and I will carry them – they do not trouble me.

if the world has become a tempest, when the wind
rages and staggers you on your feet,
call on me – I’m no sturdier, but I have
a resilient and ebbing calm to lend.

I offer this freely and gratefully, because
in all the places I’ve gone, kindness always follows
like a shyness in the smiles of strangers mouths.
I will be the agent of that peace, and its word.