I hold a wounded Christ,

or so legend says,

within this fragile sand dollar -

five punctures - hands, feet, side

no blood or gore to disturb me

but a gentle reminder

of his sacrifice

and a lovely lily with central star

recalls His resurrection

and the shepherds who traversed so far.

Upon a beach this treasure found,

slightly damaged, a reminder

he also carries me.

by Margaret Bednar, April 2, 2018