“Homeless”

A poem for all who have lost so much to the Eaton and Palisades fires here in Los Angeles. And for you, my Soul Shelter friends, in the fires you walk.

"Homeless"

Don't give me lessons to learn
or tell me God had a plan
all I knew is gone
houses once echoing
with laughing friends
after school snacks
begrudging homework
streets endlessly biked and skateboarded
now silent paths in an eerie land

shut up and just be here
in the rubble with me
and my burnt-edged heart
full of tears unwept
bear witness to what is no more
hold me
as homeless memories wander
in my black hole of grief.

©2025 Wendy Lew Toda
.....

Soul Shelter friends, abuse can leave us like these ruins - burnt out and only a hint of who we once were. It can feel like the end of us. But it's not. Just as our cities will rebuild after these fires, so will we - in time, and after evacuating to safety. And what we rebuild can be better, stronger, and wiser. Know that there is a life for you beyond the ruins. A safer one where your heart can find rest.

Praying this safety for you,
Wendy

......

Photo credit: Michael Burton