Grace

I had never felt

So exposed. Everything

On display to the universe. My body

Betrayed by my thoughts and my emotions;

Not even a fig leaf to hide

My shame. The raw edge of

Distress overwhelming me

With pain and embarrassment. And

Then your laugh, clear and bright -

Not derisive nor mocking but liquid,

Like cool water to parched lips,

A balm to my soul -

An assurance I was not alone;

That you, too, stood

Naked with me. And in that moment

I first experienced

The true meaning of grace.

— Zachary