near the heavens

Kelli Lage

I sang toward the dawn,
but dusk pulled me back.
I clawed until my fingernails
were filled with dirt.
Flung the night sky
and crashed into daylight.
Guided by flickering oil lamps.
I rise up to the horizon
just to take in the sight of golden wings,
while I hold onto the rattling chains of
the swing.
Let us sleep alongside the breeze.
I look spring in the eyes
and cry out for her to
fill my breath.
Oh! Lift me above the trees-tops to
have the best view of earth dancing. I
flutter near the heavens
and stretch my toes toward
ancient brushstrokes.
April carries me to the
hilltop.
I rest among creation.
Tonight, the darkness is hushed away.
All we have is now.


Kelli Lage lives in the Midwest countryside with her husband, and dog, Cedar. Lage is currently earning her degree in Secondary English Education. Lage states she is here to give readers words that resonate. Her awards include Special Award for First-time Entrant, Lyrical Iowa.


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