THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE PLAYGROUND 

It was always

with a feeling

of exhilaration

that I walked

the broad expanse

of space

south and west

of the northeast corner

on the boys’ playground. 

Walking south

close to the high east wall

evoked warm feelings

of St. Ann’s Infant Home

across the street,

where Sister Thoma

was my "mother"

for a summer,

and then forever disappeared.

Walking along St. Vincent’s

long east wall,

the sun upon my face,

sensing majesty in space,

euphoria

and

trauma

interlacing;

the cross

and

God’s love

interfacing. 

(July 12, 2002)