lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes,
pride of life, her clenching jaw
grimly set, each phrase incised
daring us sinners, although not raw,
yet green, us boys, under August days,
sunburnt skin chafing Sunday whites
us boys her gavel-striking gaze
aimed to breach lust's tempting bite;
though her scowl, corners ratcheted down
by the keel of her jaw in judgement poised
seemed abundantly sufficient in pride endowed
but to us deficient, perhaps, in lusts enjoyed.
Her soul, a carcass drained of all vitality
by the spidery fangs of religiosity
seemed less a warning against apostasy
than the joyless desiccation of the Pharisee.
I've searched within my hours and years
The miles I've walked and mountains climbed
Torridly flowered alpine glens spilt joyful tears
from eyes o'erwhelmed in glories sublime
and here I find, not chance, but One
who does not bear a master's chains nor whip
But as a Father says, "Please, Child, come
My love is not earned, it is my gift
even as all the beauty of earth is yours
And your love and gratitude will surely gain
what laws of men, vain rituals fail to secure
My heart, my love, my home, my Name.'
hey, neal! with this you've painted a stark contrast between judgmentalism and grace. i'm reminded of the movie, chocolat, which explores with subtlety and humor the same contrasts... after a few days just getting back to reading your poems. i look forward to more. -glen
But as a Father says, Please, Child, come My love is not earned, it is my gift even as all the beauty of earth is yours And your love and gratitude will surely gain what laws of men, vain rituals fail to secure My heart, my love, my home, my Name.'.. great write. It is really a beautiful poem having thrilling expression. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, kind sir, for your gracious thoughts, and the kindness of visiting. Be blessed, my friend, today and in all your endeavors :)
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
hi again, neal! didn't know i already read this one and did again. i'm glad you came to understand the God of grace. i grew up around boys raised in the catholic church and turned off—sometimes permanently—by nuns like the one you describe. -glen