What if Heaven is a moment, captured,

that we can stay in forever?

What if Hell is a moment, captured,

that we cannot bear to leave?

What if Heaven and Hell are just moments, 

Happening all around us all the time?

What if Heaven is the moment that held our greatest love,

and Hell the one that broke us open.

What if we have all been to both Heaven and Hell?

Maybe we are not strangers. 

What if we choose our heavens and hells 

In a thousand tiny decisions and acts

Of fear. 

Of anger. 

Of kindness. 

Of mercy – 

Every day. 

If I had to choose my Heaven, 

I think it would be this: 

Walking down the hallway 

toward the nursery, 

lifting my tiny daughter 

as she fusses in the dark

until she falls asleep

against my shoulder.