Cousin

Cousin

John Thomas Kelly

We used to argue over wine about
The Essenes. “You need to get radical!”
“It’s not my time.” I lay awake with doubt.
We both saw coming war. We read Daniel.

I was alone out there, moving always.
It’s good to act on the Lord’s word. My heart
Leapt for joy when he appeared. Then he stayed!
Until the Pharisees drove us apart.

We haven’t spoken since. I’m proud he took
Some of my men — though not my best. I hate
Waiting. I pray. I get news from the cook.
But never news that crooked’s been made straight.

Is he the one for whom I’ve sacrificed?
All my life I see him and look for Christ.

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John Thomas Kelly
Poet & Innkeeper

J-T is an innkeeper in Indianapolis, Indiana. He lives in a brick house with his wife and five small children, his two parents, and a dog.

Photography by Natalie Comrie