David Dying in Colorado

Deacon Dan Lupo | 04/02/2025

Heavy grey granite shoulders heave
Against the sky defining the sharp edge
Between Heaven and Earth
Defying high icy winds
So cold they cry snow

Fingering my prayerbook
I cry out at the line of blood
Weeping from a finger
Tip sliced by a sharp paper edge
So delicately

And in your deathbed you
Finger the delicate edge between
Life and death, fingertips
Numbed with thickening blood
Losing their grip
As you slip
Into the icy air.

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About the Author

Deacon Dan Lupo

website

Deacon Dan serves as a Spiritual Director, Retreat Director, and Healing Prayer minister in the Diocese of Austin; he is assigned to St. Thomas More Parish. He is Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus (Council #9997), and the Spiritual Advisor for the Mercy of God Prayer Center, and the Lay Ministers of Charity.

Dcn Dan received a certificate in Chaplaincy from Seton/Ascension and earned advanced degrees in Rhetoric (Purdue) and Theology (St. Mary's, San Antonio). He teaches and presents on various topics relating to spirituality, spiritual growth, prayer, and theological reflection.

In 2017 Dcn Dan served on the altar with Pope Francis at the Christmas Eve mass; he is still humbled by that sublime gift. Drums, guitar and caffeinated conversation are his favorite activities.