A Beggar's Cup

Heart speak to me
not of romance, but love.

Two paths to Armageddon
converge at the bullet point
that promises the rose blush
of heaven lies in the ankle
depth of carnage.

I want to rise above
the thumbprint of inhumanity.

The wrinkled veins of ancient texts
tout God held the editor’s hand,
but if so why can’t God hold back
hands eager for war?

The protests of absolutes damns
kindness because it isn't enough
to unlock doctrine's gate.

Peace break down the stones
on my tongue I yearn to toss
into the river of dissension.

I approach the well of love
with a beggar’s cup.
Let me drink from the water
until hate is flushed from my truth.

©Susie Clevenger 2015








Comments

Maude Lynn said…
The fifth stanza is just brilliant. Very powerful piece, Susie.
Sherry Blue Sky said…
"I approach the well of love with a beggar's cup." So beautiful, Susie.
Wonderful poem, and the last stanza is a real kick in the soul. Bravo!
Ella said…
Wow, your last stanza really got me~
I love the pace in this one~
Anonymous said…
Well done.. What we see unfolding around us brings us questions about why there are no simple answers...
Anonymous said…
So naked, a broken surrender. Not romance but love: the deeper, darker part of the heart. The one that gets so wounded. And is healed with a beggar's cup. So fine.
brudberg said…
I have to say this makes me feel a lot more hopeful.. we need more to take that stance.
kaykuala said…
Let me drink from the water
until hate is flushed from my truth.

Hate is ever present, something tangible and distressing. It is just that many still consider it a workable game plan to survive. This is grossly unfair but it thrives!


Hank
Kerry O'Connor said…
I approach the well of love
with a beggar’s cup.
Let me drink from the water
until hate is flushed from my truth.

These lines resound, Susie. They should be let loose on this world, to show that hatred is not the only way forward.
Magaly Guerrero said…
"The protests of absolutes damns
kindness because it isn't enough
to unlock doctrine's gate."

I love, love, love these lines... for I believe truth births great poetry.