Did you recall,
as you were falling into the earth,
into the abyss of memory,
before the ground dented the palms
of your hands before their time;
did you recall,
as the once-living wood pierced your side
with bitter splinters, telling them
that your burden was easy,
the yoke upon your neck un-heavy?
Do you remember,
or is it like the view from a mountaintop,
all rocks and ridges forgiven,
loud aches drowned out by awe –
for a moment, you feel
that you could harness the clouds
to carry you

The Gospel reading for Year A Proper 9 contains the verses. “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)