Locked Out

I just stepped out for a moment.

I didn’t know the door would lock behind me.

I didn’t know.

I pulled on the door.

It wouldn’t open.

I tried another.

And another.

I tried every door I could find.

The windows were too high to look in.

I went back to the front door.

This time I rattled it.

I watched and waited.

I had nowhere else to go.

I rattled.

And rattled.

No one was coming.

I wanted in.

The wind was cold.

Unforgiving.

I wanted back into the warmth.

Why didn’t someone let me in?

Did anyone notice I wasn’t there?

I rattled one door.

I rattled both doors at the same time.

I was angry.

Frustrated.

I just went out to get a bottle of water.

I was thirsty.

Why couldn’t I get back in?

I waited.

I was cold.

Alone.

Why didn’t anyone come?

I just wanted in.

I wanted to be a part of.

I didn’t want to miss out.

Someone, let me in!

Finally, I saw a person.

I rattled so they would know I wanted in.

I kept rattling when I thought they were turning away.

I rattled until I knew they were coming.

The door was opened but the way was blocked.

I was questioned.

What did I want?

I wanted in!

I belonged there.

Let me in!

Finally, the way was opened for me to come in.

Who have we locked out?

Who is thirsty?

Who is looking for a way in?

Who is rattling the doors?

Waiting?

Frustrated?

Angry?

Who just wants to belong?

Who do we need to let in?

Let me open the door.

Rockford Pastor Diane Taller was recently locked out of the church building where she was attending a workshop, "Building an Inclusive Church." The irony was not lost on her, and she felt inspired to pen this poem. The Rockford congregation is currently in the process of becoming a "Welcoming Community."