talisman

it is written

the act of writing is

holy words are

sacred and your breath

brings out the

god in them

i write these words

quickly repeat them

softly to myself

this talisman for you

fold this prayer

around your neck fortify

your back with these

whispers

may you walk ever

loved and in love

know the sun

for warmth the moon

for direction

may these words always

remind you your breath

is sacred words

bring out the god

in you

~ Suheir Hammad

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Love is the vital essence that pervades and permeates, from the center to the circumference, the graduating circles of all thought and action. Love is the talisman of human weal and woe--the open sesame to every soul. ~ Elizabeth Cady Stanton