Already Bled

They crack and bleed

as I dunk them stinging back into the water

The glasses must be washed by hand

Or they will break, too

Break open

As I pull the lever that controls the running water I watch as it runs

Clear and red down into my palm

down the drain

I am so much this way

Dipping my fingers into places where I know will only further agony and pain

When I know exactly in which cabinet lies the salve

And that if only I had administered it first, the water would not be able to seep in

To rip gently

Tamely

my flesh apart

And the Word lays open

On the table as it always does

But I did not read it this morning

Though I knew it would  protect and heal wounds already festering

and prevent those to come

I just stuck my hands right into the water

something essential to life

and so capable of bringing pain

Without tending my hands

And so, uncovered, they do their own will

And I watch as it runs red and clear down the drain

Knowing he already bled for me.