Well float my soul in six inches of mineral water, hang it on a peg beside the author and pass a thirsty mug, Chaz, while he pens a cola to a second story toast.

charlie -- real nice circle-of-life salute here, my man -- haven't had time to catch up on your work, but this is a great refresh. Imagery of the cycle works magnificently! Great stuff!

It's so good to take care of those tears before they're gaping. :-) This has a distant, haunting feel to it.

Yeah, I was going to say haunting too. Great write... again.

Charlie, One of the things I love is the way you pour out upon us, your loving readers and friends, the vessel of contradictions, the ligaments of love and pain that stretch across your soul. Your poems so very often cause me to sigh that peaceful sigh that happens when I encounter truth, when I feel that precious eternal moment of spiritual connection. I feel so honored to have known that east Texas kid for so many years. Keep those dirty fingers tapping, gently rapping into our hearts, my friend.

The title just bats around in my brain - it is disturbing and solid at the same time, perhaps simply final. There is pain and healing here and I do love the fingers that keep it together. Nice.

I really love the fruit imagery and the blend into the fact that's it's on a finger. good job!