beyond ecstasy

stopped still by a man
who's eyes caressed him;
held him motionless.
He watched the stranger pass
with some apprehension.
Then he drank his fill
quenching his thirst.
and yet craved more!
at last their eyes met
desire,
thirst,
fear.
a nod at the stranger
and a ten dollar bill
an impartial bartender
serves the whiskey
with his jaded advice
filled at last with the fiery liquid
they shed feelings,
concience,
awareness,
and worry
like a snakes old skin.
and finally,
quiet surrender as
a powerful voice
urges them forward,
beyond ecstasy.