Tonight's meditation

Felix culpa

Stay, said the serpent.

Surely he would want you to stay

Here

In the garden

The trees full of familiar fruit

It was easier the first time –

The breeze carried a hint of sweetness

Just out of reach

And I stood on tiptoes

Grasping

Now, I notice how the trees bend

The sweetness laced with something sinister

Heavy

I let it fall

And leave the way I came

The serpent at my heel

As I step lightly over the guard where he sleeps

Careful not to touch the sword

Still flaming

Pointing every way and none