THE ANGEL IN BLACK In the evening light I stand neath the swaying branches of the old willow tree they graze at the tall grass below like frozen teardrops. in the mist of coming night I see her old as time. Black as the night wings unfurled. It is her. She has come for me. Her eyes dark and beautiful. Her lips red as ruby. She has visited so many of my loved ones. She speaks softly. Are you ready for me this time? I affirm I am ready my lady. kiss me her lips find mine my breath enters her it not my breath it is my soul. Her wings lift me upwards. in the distance I see my shell it is smaller and smaller. In the light above me I hear a choir it is peaceful. My rest it final. She whispers Why did you fight me so long? You were in so much pain. I answer Because I was afraid