I Think of Heaven

I think of heaven
while soaking warm afternoon sun
in a backyard oasis
on the outskirts of New Orleans.

I think of heaven;
Tiger Lillies, flitting, singing birds,
green lawns and trees,
and billowy clouds above.

I think of heaven.
On Sunday we went to Mass
at St. Dominick's on Canal Street.
497 friends of The Word,
in cathedral-like quiet.
Seated under Station Seven,
Jesus on the cross above,
I think of heaven.

We drove through New Orleans East,
devastated by Hurricane Katrina,
slowly tearing down and rebuilding
with struggle, banking upon faith.
I think of heaven.

Soaking warm afternoon sun
on the outskirts of New Orleans,
I think of heaven.