Sisters of Mercy

Sisters of Mercy

...for Leonard Cohen


They unweave the web of lies for you,
lay platters of forgiveness at your feet,
intrigue falters, and the taint of greed,
their soft embraces dutiful and sweet.

They walk you through the fire with measured gait,
distilling all the hatred and the fear,
'til cleansed and ready for the test of faith
you pass through Heaven's gate without a tear.

Emulsified, the portrait of a waif
takes shape, as if transfigured by the Light,
within the crucible you coruscate,
and glow unhindered, gentled by their might.

A waif in Heaven's eyes is like a king,
untrammeled by the trappings of the crown,
in rags, yet fortified by trust and love,
the Sisters pray, you lay your burdens down.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2010

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Mac Donald Avatar
December 7, 2010 at 3:52 PM
Oh, I love Leonard Cohen..."Suzanne takes you down to her place near the river You can hear the boats go by..." How sweet of you to offer this to him, Keith.:) You certainly haven't lost your touch. Be well, take care, Mikki
Loveless Avatar
June 10, 2010 at 10:50 AM
Please get as many people as possible to read Hush Missing Child <3
Green Avatar
May 17, 2010 at 12:34 AM
Soup mail
Green Avatar
May 16, 2010 at 11:04 PM
OOhh, nice. What a beautiful picture this paints.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace