The Way

An issue of Time magazine titled, ‘The Jesus Revolution.’ A face with a mustache, beard, and long hair is on the cover, surrounded by clouds.

Their marriage is bumpy.

I’m nearly five before they

find Jesus

are born again

and begin to pray and pray

and pray

for a baby because

babies are a blessing now.

We camp outdoors with

other Jesus freaks

read from the Hippie Bible

go to Jesus festivals

where all dance and sing

together

like we’re at Woodstock.

The cover of a book titled The Way: The Living Bible Illustrated. ‘The Way’ is written in large bold letters with three human faces visible within the letters.

I made Mom and Dad miss

their Woodstock

with my unfortunate

unplanned

unprayed-for arrival.

I delight in the open air celebration,

reckless joy racing

across the field

swirling in the air with

Christian folk songs.

Hand-painted banners announce

JESUS IS ALIVE!

I plunge right in. My child-voice

shouting with the crowd

we came to

Praise the Lord!

Jesus fills me

from the heart outward

love settles delicious on my skin

and I am whole.

Four people standing on a stage with the word ‘Jesus’ surrounding them in large letters. One person sits at a piano, another holds a guitar, and another has an open mouth and both arms raised. A large crowd stands in front of the stage, some with their hands raised.