Heather Pound

we hunger

not only for bread,

but for the things

that truly fill the soul

distraction and pleasure are

a quick fix that disappear

like candy floss in rain

and are about as substantial

as this, too

desperately searching in the desert

for sustenance, we realize that the

place of deprivation has dissolved

superfluous things that we don’t

really need for the journey

unwholesome baggage that just takes

up space like self-criticism, insecurity

and fears. and as they shift and melt

away, they leave us space for more

for those hearty, healthful things

that stick to our ribs, bring a glow

to our cheeks and give us strength

for the journey ahead

—however uncomfortable, there is often purpose in those desert seasons.

image:Katerina Kerdi via Unsplash