Carnival (20 February 2007)

Carnival (20 February 2007)
By Jonathan Bennett

I've not been to the gravesite since summer
And see no reason to return today.
I have the tokens, the icons of him,
Which bring him closer than dirt, grass, and stone.
And it's come time again for ash crosses,
Though I've no need for mortal reminders.
So I contemplate skipping those forty,
Since I lived them for that and more last year.
I'm well aware of the frailty of flesh,
And have no need of my piece of burnt palm.
Instead I will tuck leaf into his pipe
And let its incense sanctify this fast
Imposed by the sad farewell to his flesh.