After
By Judith Mensch

After, I tell myself.  After.

After the last nook has been dusted,

The last cranny cleansed:

After the last soul has been saved;

 

After, I tell myself.  After.

After the last word has been spoken,

The last amen a memory on the air,

After the least becomes the most;

 

After, I tell myself.  After.

After the last tear has been dried:

The last cry heard:  after.

After that, I tell myself.  After.