Baptism
for Anya Grace Garipoli


Held against Mother's red dress --
a wide white rose -- pungent, heavy --
when the time came to be blessed
you glistened -- and stood ready.

Your head, pressed down, sprung back
and swept up the water like wind.
The Reverend held your hand and spoke
but it seemed you -- were blessing him --


Donald Zirilli
1998