Hold.

When death rips
tears from your eyes.
And the cascading hope of this moment
seizes every potential ending.

Hold.

When the world digs
bloody deep into the chest.
And that unified beat
from which you reaffirm your life
is partially extinguished.

Hold.

When an avalanche of misfortune
inhumes you from all light,
driving you under
every doubt you’ve ever had.

Hold.

When clouds dampen
the forecast of your days,
and the sun has burnt out
the last of its promise.

Hold.

When the pieces are lost,
the puzzle undone,
and the picture is too large to see.

Hold.

Because strength without test is dulling.
Hope without trial is empty.