pursed prayers

deflections shield, cast widely
dive-dodge, duck, parry fate
god given gifts, de(i)fy odds
measured in stars; Atlas bear this
carry this, carry me, I cannot bear (!)
such an unflinching gaze 
[sepulcher]
hewn smooth, lovingly etched
tangible sentiments in sediment
this hollowed nature
that hallowed life
ivy grown, still sanctifies