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 © Keith Bickerstaffe | Year Posted 2016
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