"Grace and Mercy"

It only hurts when I'm awake and when I'm asleep, dreaming.
It only hurts when hearing the metallic clank of my cell door and whenever I hear a child's laugh.
It only hurts when I reflect on the good time and when I remember the not-so-good times.
It only hurts when no one writes or visits and when they do write and visit.
It only hurts when... It only hurts when... It only hurts when...
(shh) stop. Quiet - breathe in.
(shh) Psalm 46:10 - breathe out.
"Be still and know that I am God."
In a single span of breath
In the space between in and out.
Grace and Mercy
And my cheeks are wet with gratitude.