the earth is holding them

i am holding them: all their bones,

the ones you buried. 

i keep them: not like secrets, 

but like saints:

enfold their bones 

in roots and webs, 

in beetles, bright as jewels.

Each name you will not speak

i keep

and cherish

and when their names are called 

i will unfold them,

slick with blood

and thick with tears.

Heap up your might while you can,

and your pride: 

that mountain cannot bear the weight

i, tender, hold:

their names shall all be told,

are told,

are cherished.

Each one weighed against your soul.