I Would

light

a thousand candles

pure scintillating radiance

wisps of prayer

rising like smoke

to heaven

carrying

my deepest wishes

If I thought it would make you well

offer

each cent

every copper-bright penny

to the poorest

of poor

until I stood among them

naked

and empty-handed

If I thought it would make you well

pray

on my knees

from sunset to dawn

while stiff muscles seized

from disuse

recite every psalm

until my voice faltered

and failed

If I thought it would make you well

do all

in my power

beseech heaven on high

make any sacrifice

tears sweat or blood

give any part of me

to God

or to men

If I thought it would make you well