Murnane Halfway House - PO

National Catholic Reporter, July 2, 1999 by Charles Varani

   We haven't met
   you nor your child yet
   we know why you are here
   in this cramped room
   with its long bank of windows
   flooding in brilliant morning light
   and leaking in damp Willamette nights
   you are balanced
   between heaven and hell
   one flight up from the street dealers
   across from the tattoo parlor
   will new paint, new floor, new drapes.
   and our hopes be enough?
   will a basket of books, soap and towels
   be enough?

   we pray for you
   for all of us
   on the journey
   balanced on slivers of faith

--Charles Varani Eugene, Ore.3