In Front Of The Campfire

In front of the campfire.
I heard their voices.

They said they believed God’s voice.
He didn’t believe for a moment.

They called on Him to take the blame for everything.
I felt his hand press a little over my shoulder. “Don’t go.”

I closed my eyes.
The demons didn’t know I existed.

“Stay put. It only takes a second or two.”
My hand tightened on his grip. “I understand that.”

The campfire flared brighter, like a flame of glory and wonder.
And the angels were standing around as gods.

I closed my eyes again and took another deep breath.
You can smell the fire.

Then suddenly it was gone.
A sudden coldness gripped my entire body.

I felt dizzy, my face tingling.
“It’s getting closer,” I said, more softly.

“You’ll make out,” he assured me.
“I know where He is.”

“I’m not stupid,” I said.
“I know what my sins are doing to me.”

The darkness swelled.
I couldn’t see anything.

Then there was a noise behind the campfire.
It was like the sound of rain falling on something wet.

My throat tightened, and I was shaking violently.
I tried to speak, but it almost failed completely.

His voice was the whisper of something distant and ancient.
“I’m sorry,” he murmured against my heart.