Sanitized

Crucifixes hang from freshly painted walls.
No blood, no dust, no grime, no tears are
Displayed on the timbers.
No sounds of anguish, no agony, no animosity
Are heard.
No odors of torn flesh, of sweat, of vinegar,
Of burning embers.
Just smooth porcelain
On two pieces of olive wood.
A reminder, nonetheless.

By Susie McAllister