ARTHOUSE: How to Hold a Burning Coal

ARTHOUSE is my free Substack series, a small window into my world that includes a poem, its backstory, and accompanying audio ear candy.

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“How to Hold a Burning Coal” by Maverick L. Malone

I get it.
You’re angry. You’re fuming. You’re seething.
You’re exhausted. You’re burnt out. You’re drowning.
You’re lost. You’re lonely. You’re scared.

You’re grieving. You’re suffocating.
You’re heavy. You’re in pain.

I see you. I believe you. I understand. I love you.
I’m so sorry the world hurt you.

Is it ok if I sit right here?
We don’t even have to talk.

You can nod your head yes or no.
I just didn’t want you to burn

alone.