virtually sinless

sometimes we'd be

late

and miss the first act.

the kneeling

and praying part

of the service,

the grand entry of the priest,

the gala

of gowns and music,

the altar boys

not far behind,

carrying things

of vague importance.

we had walked and ran

three miles

to get there,

with our hair combed

and our clean

shirts and pants on.

we had envelopes

in our pockets.

coins for the basket.

we were well behaved.

virtually sinless

expect for the occasional

throwing of snow balls

at cars when it snowed.

bigger sins of lust

and envy, were yet to

come.

teasing sisters and chewing

gum seemed to be

the worst of it,

all washed away at

Saturday confession.