Phyllis

she steps to the stage

disguised as an old woman

white hair, dangly bracelets jangling

scarves artfully arranged and flowing

academic pedigree preceeding

 

yet with sleeves rolled up

feet dancing back and forth

jokes and anecdotes softening up the crowd

bobbing and weaving, hands moving

history and theology keeping a rhythm

encyclopedic insights to stick and move

lulling them with laughter

 

but then, in time

the feet plant

the payload delivered

then the pause

the low groans of those gathered

a tacit confession and celebration

that she has connected

 

the Spirit, she packs a punch