By day, it drowses fitfully,
its sleep empty, dreamless,
like a sky wishing for birds.
At night, when its hinged
body wakes, it remembers
the twin joys of carrying
and being carried, the thrill
of embracing the earth
and resisting its pull.
Since 1900, the Christian Century has published reporting, commentary, poetry, and essays on the role of faith in a pluralistic society.
© 2026 The Christian Century.
Suitcase
By day, it drowses fitfully,
its sleep empty, dreamless,
like a sky wishing for birds.
At night, when its hinged
body wakes, it remembers
the twin joys of carrying
and being carried, the thrill
of embracing the earth
and resisting its pull.
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