Meal

Around the table
the voices rise and fall,
a story is told,
a litany of remembrance
is recited,
and an echo of laughter
reminds us of this goodness
that binds us.
As the candles burn on,
glowing in the ruby wine,
and the bread is broken
and the dishes passed
from one to another,
there is always a moment
when the flames flicker
as if an unseen presence
stirs the air.
It is, I know,
the one not with us,
the one who loves us still,
who has heard the laughter
and come to linger for a while,
to offer a tender blessing
on this holy
meal.

--Timothy Haut, March 24, 2016