Sleeplessness at night —
That is prayer itself,
A milling, a grinding,
A lessening of the self.
A chase after clarity.
But when there is ignoring,
The teacher walks away.

Anxiety, stress, the kidneys have worked,
The liver calls to the toilet.
The clock hand has not yet touched four —
The poet suffers in prayer.

Over him the Word of the day is at work,
Gives a sword, a shield, and a helmet.
Bestows strength for living,
To carry dignity, not shame.