Seán Walsh – Witnessed

Witnessed

Published on Saturday 7th February 2026 by Seán Walsh

Bell! The bell! Why doesn’t he – ?

Or call out – Leper! Leper!

‘Coming towards us even as we –

Then back, people! Back!..

Oh, what is he about?

In danger of stoning if he comes any –

And still he stumbles on… intent.

On what?

Could it be… the rabbi from Galilee?

Oh?.. Oh, yes!.. desperate.

All of us backing off –

Except the Nazarene…

He has turned… waits…

Smiles by Heaven! Smiles!

As the leper knells to him –

Hands and face set in pleading –

 Oh, no! The rabbi is reaching out –

Don’t touch! Don’t touch!

Too late! He has placed a hand on –

The leper touching his face

looking  at his hands –

Cured? Could he be?..

Indeed and indeed! Firm, healthy flesh –

No sores now, scabs, withered tissue…

Arms and limbs renewed.

And of a sudden! In an instant!..

Standing now… talking.

If only we could tell what they are – ?

No… Nor will we ever – unless…

What?

He calls to the crowds in passing…

“ I was a leper – now I am clean!”

     Upright now… standing tall.

A backward glance at his life-giver –

and he is on his way:

“He admonished me… not to…”

People stopping to stare… give ear.

#

On barren earth… rags ruffled

by a gentle breeze…

To one side… a bell.

More on Seán Walsh’s work: https://sean-walsh.me/

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