I do not need your mercy
For you do not hold the power
To release or bind me
I hold the means
And
I have long since
Opened the cage
And
Buried the keys
Beneath the cherry tree
Where they have grown fruit
Sweet as first kisses
Sharp as outgrown love
At each harvest
Each barren season
I have forgiven myself
The dignity and foolishness
Of my human
Pilgrimage
To wholeness