(December 31, 1995, 1:42 P.M.) (A/N: Read from bottom up.)

onto his cheeks. 

rests alone with liquid jewels stroked 

He now

***

that offers escape. 

is the open moon’s mask 

Onyx 

of hope and pride. 

is strength’s sweeping surge 

Amethyst 

that paints the tissues. 

are the blue-blood circles 

Sapphire 

that sing of safety. 

are the high heavens above 

Aquamarine 

that cradles life. 

is the dew-dropped carpet 

Emerald 

that slice open the limp lids. 

are the sharp rays of sunlight 

Topaz 

that cascades away. 

is the color of consciousness 

Carnelian 

in clenched rocks. 

is the rage that rains down 

Ruby 

*** 

of the earth. 

contains all the colors 

A teardrop 

Up from earth