That lucid moment

that parted all the pain behind

from all the pain ahead—

like God parting the sea

and coming through

to meet her—

shined—

brighter than the star,

brighter than the angel hosts,

brighter than the gleam

in shepherds’ eyes. 

This was no stable—

but a palace.

These were no shepherds—

but princes. 

That was no manger—

but God’s throne.

She knelt on gold, 

speechless with awe,

as in trembling arms 

the virgin

held her Son.