Freedom's Prayer Poem by Maurice Harris

Perhaps, my friend, you shall see me no more-
If this be so, do not bury me, I do implore!
Should I not see you again, keep in your heart
A place for me and for all that I did, in you, impart!

Continue to hold true to all that makes thee beauteous-
To the same, I shall remain, steadfast and duteous!
Do not feel sorrow for me though, live your lives whole;
If gone, it will only be in body, they shan't steal too, my soul!

Keep my children too, fresh in your thoughts, they will need
For you to assure them of what you know is my heart's creed!
Should I not return, the fracture of my heart will be complete;
Alas, sadly, this would signify fully, truth's dreadful defeat!

So too, if this comes to pass, though my heart continues breaking-
'I have set the Lord continually before me...I will not be shaken.' (Psalm 16: 8)

Maurice Harris,29 August 2009