you who ran unconstrained
across the Curragh
stand between me and slavery
as you shattered the lies
of the shrewd
would-be rapist
would-be owner of his
intended thrall
freed his victim
now sovereign again
over
spirit body heart
bless me
protector of women and the bound
you knew your path
though yourself a slave
made them set you free
set me free
enquired of the mute child
what do you want?
though others cried impossible!
did not stir until
she found and made her choice
let me know the truth
of my own thoughts
the liberty to follow them
where I must
bless preserve
enlighten me
long against danger
give me aid
Image: Young, long-haired, black woman running in grass. Image is blurred. Photo by Nsey Benajah on Unsplash
