They visit the abbey
They visit
the abbey recommended
by slick photos and snazzy blurbs
on the promotional pamphlets.
It’s raining
when they arrive –
everything dull and grey.
Inside, the stink of old incense hangs
from the walls as if nailed there
centuries back.
There’s barely enough brightness
to illuminate the stained glass
revealing scenes of sadness and suffering.
Just one panel,
tucked away behind a distant pew,
shines with a certain lightness and hope.
That is the only picture
she takes,
with him in the frame,
smiling.
R L Raymond, From: Half Myths & Quarter Legends