This collection of pieces by Michael Pollick explores themes of spirituality and religious faith. These works have been previously included in a number of Christian publications around the world, including The Creative Christian and The Rock. More of the author's work can be found in "Makebelieve Ballroom", an ebook published through Smashwords.

Petty Theodicy

The first time he said anything, I was slightly amused

and wrote it all down on a gum wrapper.

(Wrapper's gone now.)

The second time he spoke I had a tape recorder all ready

and captured it all on second-hand tape.

(Do not leave tapes exposed to sunlight.)

The next time he spoke I brought a court reporter,

who promptly fainted when the enormity struck her.

(Hire only seasoned professionals.)

He spoke again the next day to the Ladies' Auxiliary,

who conveniently left his name off the program

to make room for dessert.

(Rum raisin cake, must get recipe.)

After this he was seen speaking to some Boy Scouts,

a few derelicts

on 42nd,

various doctors, an occasional jogger, several veterans,

numerous ministers and rabbis,

bored journalists, and itinerant salesmen.

Rumor has it that he spoke to all of us once-

but he was in so much pain that day.

(I thought he was calling for Elijah.)

It was a Savior-to-person call.