The Reluctant Christian at Table

The Reluctant Christian at Table

Please take this back to the kitchen.
It is too rare.
Warm, yes,
but raw.

Unsuspecting, I pierced it with my fork;
red spread over my plate,
bathing everything in blood.
Please replace it all,
the side of faith,
the helping of hope.
You can leave out the gratitude garnish
– I never eat it, anyway.

Yes, I know
some think the blood enriches the flavor.

It does not tempt
my palate.

Please take it back.
Bring me something neater, if less divine,
to go with my wine.

I ordered my love well done.

– A.M. Otwell, 2008