Faith

i prayed for faith
for meaning
for strength

faith came
taught
by a wise friend

faith nourished
provided a rock
so i could stand and walk

i prayed for humility
to molt the skin
of pretense and judgment

humility came
accosted me
with a sharp blade

it continues to cut
pain is frightening
the work of the blade is exhilarating

i see a different world
it is clear
i know nothing of faith