This Time

This time there was no pretense
The cold breeze slapped with a sense of clarity
This time the sky was dark and gloomy
The stars had gone to sleep.

This time there was no audience.
But ones conscience to act as judge
This time the quiet noise was  deafening
The staccato of raindrops a welcome placebo.

 This time the soul was naked.
Uncloaked from the weight of guilt.
Words as scalpel breaks off the sternum
 Opening the heart to deep seated pains

This time was for being human
To let go of perceived inhibitions
And allow tears run freely
Washing off stains of self loath
And long buried secrets plaguing the mind.

This time was a night of redemption.
Honor for shame, beauty for ashes.