Some things cannot be mended further. They can only be carried cleanly.

The work ends
without asking to be named

Tools wiped
and set back in their places

The bench cleared
dust gathered
and carried out

Water runs
over what’s left of the job

Grit goes first
then the weight
the ache remains

Nothing is undone
by stopping here

Hands scarred by the work
still clean
the weight goes with me