Strands I washed,
full of heavy emotion.
Grief worn tangible
for a year
before I could bear
carrying less.
The ritual.
Braid cut off,
shaved close enough
to feel sunshine
kissing my temple.
A section of hair
given up
to hear better
what the rain cries about,
angels singing,
my God
and His laughter.
I sat beneath the shears
wondering
if I’d feel this horrible relief
had I done it sooner.
I believe in perfect timing.
Even tragedy
holds mirror
It is right.
Sheared down,
I am softer now.