Old Woman Saint

And creased face went to Sugar Creek,
Your eyes speaking hope,
Your ears compassion.

Others preached,
You prayed.
Others taught wise truths,
You played with children,
Smiled at them and held a small
Bird in your lap,
Hid a frightened child in your skirt folds,
Wound your ancient time-piece once
Again before child's-gaze,
Amazed.

You blessed the prairie Church
With your true presence.
Then with your old body
And beads smooth-worn
Went home to die.

Michael O'Neill McGrath OSFS

You with your old hands