My throat burns with atonement as my veins release my guilt.
I weave my expiation from the failures I have built.
My whole integument is founded on this single law
That penance must be felt for each iniquity and flaw.
For these things were instilled in me by parents, church, and Book.
They guided me with suffering so I'd not overlook
The fundamental truth of being born into my sin;
That without reparation I rear wickedness within.
But something else has started to uproot my way of dealing,
Refuting my response to guilt with tenderness and feeling.
And though I don't accept it yet, I'll still admit accismus.
I can't help but acknowledge that your lips taste like forgiveness.
(2023)
