for Bobby “Blue” Bland
Lying in dark bedroom in ’64,
senses clutching radio, low volume—
to not wake mom and dad asleep next door—
feeling gnawing night’s loneliness consume
me. Then suddenly strings and sad choral
singers harmonizing, followed by voice
of the redeemer, pleading yet tranquil,
caressing pained notes with silk gloves. What choice
could I have but go deep, release dammed tears,
utter yes to our souls as he
rescues
me. Pray: “You, dear deliverer from fear,
guardian of my heart who soothes with blues,
keep me enclosed in your sacred place, so she
hears my plea in your plea: share
your love with me.”
Roger Armbrust
June 24, 2013
