Seán Walsh: Witnessed

Witnessed

Two Voices… witnessing…

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Bell! The bell! Why doesn’t he – ?

Or call out – Leper! Leper!

‘Coming towards us even as we –

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Then back, people! Back!..

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Oh, what is he at?

In danger of stoning if he comes any –

And still 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 kneels 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.

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And of a sudden! In an instant!..

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Standing now… talking.

If only we could tell what they are – ?

No… Nor will we ever – unless…

What?

He calls out aloud:

“ 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: exultant,

dancing betimes, laughing outright…

People stopping to stare… wonder.

“He told me… not to… Sure how can I not?..”

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On barren earth… rags ruffled

by a gentle breeze…

To one side… a bell.

Seán Walsh

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