And Jacob lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold, Esau came. – Gen. 33:1

God appeared terrible that day.
Sinister, smiling, descending
the distance (across the way
He bore gifts to me unknowing).
Hour of retribution—I cashed in
my goods and awaited judgment:

His fury fell swift
on my neck
with kisses
wet.

Hunting hands, outstretched and empty,
embraced my guilt, ignored my penance.
‘Put away your bribes; see, I have plenty—
Today I claim my inheritance.’
Covered still in red, he remained the elder brother;
whitened now with age, he resembled more our father.