For my friend...

When the heart
is cut or cracked or broken
do not clutch it
let the wound lie open

let the wind
from the good old sea blow in
to bathe the wound with salt
and let it sting.

let a stray dog lick it
let a bird lean in the hole and sing
a simple song like a tiny bell
and let it ring

let it go. let it out
let it all unravel.
let it free and it can be
a path on which to travel.

Dear God,

When we fall, let us fall inwards.
Let us fall freely and completely:
that we may find our depth and humility:
the solid earth from which we may rise up
and love again.

Amen.

by Michael Leunig