Holy Ground

By Lucy Tian '22

I. gray linoleum

warped plastic and pencil thin scratches

shower caddies leave transparent rings

time and time again

secrets unspoken and wisdom found by

countless miles walked upon it

II. fiery sunset

lonely work takes off under the night

do not draw near

cruel rays hide sight and warmth

clinging to tears on linoleum gray

III. weary boots

outlined in melting snow

salt pools and crusts

in storms upon storms

crystals scratching under a cold day

frigid air steals precious breath

IV. yellow sandals

carry fleeting reprieve to the day

take them off

cold toes remember how to dig deep

press in to be washed by gray linoleum

Illustration by Helena Suh '23