Steady Rhythm

‘Do not be afraid!’

The words sooth as they trickle,

cool

and gentle,

deep into her spirit.

‘For nothing is impossible

for God…’,

he continues.

And she believes.

‘Do not be afraid…’

she whispers to the little one,

soothing

the unborn,

cooing

her love song

as she feels him move deep within-

Steady rhythm

beating the ground;

careful, gentle donkey-hooves

drumming,

adding to her humming

rhythm

and peace.

She stills her breathing.

Hand beneath her heart

she feels the tempo rising–  

beating,

pounding deep inside.

She knows her time.

Through throbbing pain

she hears the cattle lowing;

sees starlight-thrown shadows

cross the floor.

Black shadows.

Fear consumes–

then

she remembers...

‘Do not be afraid…’

The words echo down through time,

cool and gentle in her spirit

as hammers fall 

width steady rhythm.