how to heal a wound

how to heal a wound

first, you must examine it
look deep into the dark recesses
at the ugly details of the ragged edges
and damaged tissue
see it for what it is

next, remove the source of injury
extract the sharp object or word
cease the behavior that brought on the bleeding
stop tearing what’s ready to mend

now, cleanse the site
flush with tears
lay your body down in water that moves
let the offense float away

then, bind the severed bits together
thread a needle with compassion
weave it through the halves seeking whole
slowly draw opposite sides close

after that, protect the wound
administer salve and a soft cloth
apply gentle pressure
as in handshake or hug
encourage rest
keep from further harm

you are not done
you must revisit the split
check for signs of recovery
guard against infection
minimize scarring

and make whatever art you need
to invoke the gods’ protection
including giving thanks
to all those present
at your revival