…Silence fills the midday air
Breath caught in my lungs
Watch the horizon spin away
Into a pale memory of dust…

Awakened from the trial
Spared from the guillotine
Felt freedom in my lungs
For the first time in years

A huge sigh of relief
You didn’t let me down
You only saved my life
Gratitude for another chance

Wings spread, ready to soar
Eyes to the sky, not the grave
The verdict you gave to me
Was the sweetest song of all

Come now, let me repay the gift
I’m in debt to your compassion
You gave me a reason to live
Let us rejoice in the serendipity of life.

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A poem by Jason S. Sullivan, 10-22-20