I reach for the canister of ash

And take my thumb and smear it

On my neck, like a holy gash.

I wear my thread every day.

I don't question my faith and

I never look the other way.

Others can never make me falter

Because I don't go to the church

And instead kneel at my altar.

Even my own question me,

But I just don't give a damn

About living differently.

To be as others, I won't waver.

I won't lose myself in the murk.

I will remain as oil in the water.