Expiation & Exorcism

The metal serpent

spits out a rush of water,

running tiny streams down my skin.

Maybe if I scrub hard enough,

I can wash off all this dirt

That weighs me down like sin.

Now I must make sure that the blade

is sharp enough.

The foam covers my face and neck.

Slash! The blade takes with it

thousands of demons at once,

until the skin around my beard

is barren, blessed

with the tingle of a snowdrop.

"Dear Father..."

Slash!

"..please bless this bounty.."

Slash!

"..which I am about to receive.."

Slash!

"..I shall fear no evil..."

Slash!

"..for the aloe soothes me!"

Slash!

The ritual is complete.

Now I am purified.