Notes About The Poem

The Woods Are Lovely

“The woods are lovely, dark and deep, 
but I have promises to keep, 
and miles to go before I sleep” (Robert Frost).

The woods know my secrets
For I open my heart
In this enclosed sanctuary of God
As folded branches draw my eyes
Upward, ever upward
Towards the emerald ceiling
With a skylight
From which streams
The light of heaven
Pure and sweet
On my face

The trees are my counselors
Sacred dispensers
Of the mysteries of God
Sentinels tall and majestic
Guarding my hushed sacred hours
Of contemplation and renewal
The would be silence
Sweetly disturbed 
By the sounds of His creatures 
Filling God’s outdoor sanctuary
With a heavenly hymn of praise

Each trail leads me deeper and deeper
For my heart longs to be
In the Holy of Holies
In the very presence of the Creator
On holy ground
Yes, Yes!
He is here
His presence
Envelopes me

After my communion
The closing benediction of sunlight
Guides me home
The thinning trees whisper 
“Forget us not” stories to me
As I pass them by
Stories of long ago pilgrims
From another time
Yet one with me
The same
Pilgrims in search of sanctuary
A place of solace
A place of tenderness
A place of discovery
Where they come to learn
The miles left to go
Till journey’s end
When they must lie down
In well deserved sleep
Safe under the shadows
Of God’s mighty trees
Resting, resting
Blissful sleep
In the Sanctuary
In HIS sanctuary
In the woods…..

Eileen Manassian
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

Poem

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Mc Mills-Cooper Avatar
October 6, 2016 at 8:41 AM
The title drew me in...I must admit. I love this poem by Robert Frost....but who doesn't right? :^D Very nice piece here...a different take on the woods from Frost. Even threw in some history too...nice work here! MC
Dietrich Avatar
June 2, 2016 at 8:19 PM
I love trees and it's so cool how you wove the image of those pilgrims with thoughts similar to yours into this beautiful poem, Eileen. Wonderful.
Seal Avatar
June 1, 2016 at 7:22 PM
As a kid I would spend the entire summer hols in the woods, they've always seemed peaceful and magical to me, but never more so after reading this write. Take care, Richard
Lamoureux Avatar
June 1, 2016 at 6:23 AM
Hugs back to you Eileen.
Callus Avatar
May 31, 2016 at 1:01 PM
It is a pity that we lack woods like these in my country, Eileen; that is why when I go abroad I take pleasure in walking through them. This poem reminds me of similar thoughts and feelings which come to me then... indeed, a serene sanctuary, a place for meditation. Hugs // paul
Manassian Avatar
May 31, 2016 at 1:13 PM
Thank you, dear. "I think that I shall never see...a poem lovely as a tree." ;) You should see our forest of cedars. Breathtaking. Perhaps...one day you will. Miss you....Hugs
Meade Avatar
May 31, 2016 at 10:41 AM
My heart was flooded with warmth and love -- words that invited me into a worship and prayer -- refreshed, encouraged, and loved -- I am really to face the day! Outstanding LO -- I am glad I dropped by today!
Manassian Avatar
May 31, 2016 at 11:47 AM
Thanks, David. Always lovely to hear from you. I hope you have posted something as well. :) I miss having you around here. I'm glad you liked this piece. It is actually a repost I did for a contest once. Hugs... :)
Trifiatis Avatar
May 31, 2016 at 7:25 AM
Mystifying and spiritual! I found myself in nature's Cathedral dearest, Eileen! A seven times seven!
Manassian Avatar
May 31, 2016 at 11:48 AM
I'm so happy that you liked this write, my dear esteemed poet. God bless you for your lovely words of commendation. Hugs to you....
Lamoureux Avatar
May 31, 2016 at 12:18 AM
You made me feel the majesty, the picture was inadequate to do justice to your words. Bravo Eileen. Hugs Rick.
Manassian Avatar
May 31, 2016 at 11:59 AM
That is a comment that brings me joy. :) Thank you, Richard. I know that you are sincere in what you write. I'm grateful. Hugs
Vaso Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 6:47 PM
oh no, I have to, again, wow wow wow, its not only the beauty but the sincerity and depth of this write that captivated me, you are truly a poetess!
Manassian Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 10:10 PM
I can never tire of those wows, my dear. Thanks ever so much for bolstering my morale. Hugs
Merryman Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 6:04 PM
Beautiful and inspirational, Eileen! Vivid descriptions that made me long to be there. Love, Kim
Manassian Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 10:12 PM
I'm glad, Kim....there is a beauty in nature that inevitably draws the heart to the Creator. I'm glad you enjoyed this piece.
Ellison Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 4:32 PM
Believe your eyes... it's Kenny!!!!! Absolutely lovely poem my dear Betty Boop... please forgive! Love and hugs, Kenny xox
Manassian Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 10:12 PM
Hello, dear.....I've missed you. Thanks for the visit, dear. :) Smiles from Beirut.
Fleming Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 1:52 PM
Nicely expressed, Eileen. You have imparted a sense of majesty and blissful tranquility all neatly rolled up into one charming little package...really all quite enchanting! My very best regards as always, Eileen. :) john
Manassian Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 10:14 PM
I love the words you've chosen for your post here, John. Very beautiful...They have touched my heart. Bless you for it, dear. Hugs
Andresen Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 1:04 PM
- This has a beauty that appeals to the heart, brain and the eye, dear Eileen - hugs and a 7 // Anne-Lise :)
Manassian Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 10:16 PM
:) A multisensory experience, then. Thanks, Sunshine. Loved your warmth today. Hugs
Raha Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 12:14 PM
Within this piece,I find communion with my own first offering to Soup.It's called "On sacred ground."I can relate many of the images and visions expressed here.Yes the woods are result of God's creative self,and a blessed sanctuary for pilgrims like us to rest and contemplate god's eternal mystery. Brilliantly well done,Eileen.
Manassian Avatar
May 30, 2016 at 11:24 PM
It is a sanctuary where one can go to for comfort and protection. Yes, Miraj....nature is a place where we can meet with the Creator and find peace and tranquility. I will check out your poem later on today. Thank you for your visit. :)
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