FIRE PLACE

After dinner, one by one,
we gathered in our chairs –
a few of us on the couch –
ready for the most ancient
of rituals. The logs
were placed precisely
on the altar of sacrifice.
Slowly the fire began –
dancing the ancient dance,
arms raised in praise.
The cracking snap
of burning wood was music.
The glow captured our souls.
The silent television set
in the background was envious –
knowing it couldn’t compete
with this show.

© Andy Costello, 2007