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Speaking Gently to the Fanatic
You speak of Heaven
As if the Kingdom pulsates
Outside of the heart
You illustrate Hell
As if raw eternity
Is unforgiving
You pray so stiffly
Like your Father does not know
That you are a child
You condemn for Christ
And hate in the name of life
Killing for justice
Please, soften your glare
Place the bullhorn at your side
Unravel your soul
The Word is not found
In bared teeth or angry eyes
It is a soft song
Love is communion
Compassion is ministry
God is the Center
![](http://cdn.teenink.com/art/June08/PalmRoad72.jpg)
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This article has 24 comments.
Yes, to never hide anything from God.
I'm beginning to think that the aim in this life is not to grow up, but to hold onto your inner and outer chile forever.
Forgive me for returning to this after such a long time, but I've been thinking quite a lot about the matter.
It's essential for people to understand that it's okay it cry before God. To break down before Him. Even to blame him, if that's what we feel like. Because that's true prayer, and prayer must be honest. Everyone is more vulnerable than they let on; it's only the people with real substance that are able to confess it.
Thank you again, Aderes! Your comments are really making my day, and it's wonderful to receive your kind compliments. I very much need to look deep into your work to return the favor.
I know, right? It's people like that who I was speaking to. Those who wear religion on their sleeves (sometimes fervently) but don't carry a trace of it in their hearts.
I'm glad to leave an impression on anything, especially the mind of my fellow bird!
And that's true about the rhyme scheme, as several people have been kind enough to remind me.
The third stanza? Hmmm, let me see.
Ah, yes. That was, I admit, also a reminder to myself: to pray like I am vulnerable and naive. I read a wonderful Taoist meditation that asks one to "open up his heart and allow the 'velvet child' to come forth from it." Beautiful, I thought.
And well said. Thanks for reminding me that.
A soft song... I love that description. Thanks for applying it to mine; I'm quite grateful.
Good luck to you in all of your endeavors.