Retreat

I must go to the desert
alone, without shields
face wild beasts and angels
the stillness I feared

I must go to the desert
alone, without weapons
soften the scorched earth
with tears

I must go to the desert
alone, without luggage
for the dream
of a single pearl

I must go to the desert
alone, without agendas
embrace my weakness
to find what I seek.

I must go to the desert
alone for a time

When I return
you will not know me

Will I know myself?