Your Favorite Poems

[ChristinaTherese]

So, Emma's countdown thread seems to have collected a good amount of poetry, which goes to show that at least some of us on here like good poems. What are your favorite poems?

Here's one of mine (I love many and may well return with more):

[b][i]Heaven-Haven
(A nun takes the veil)[/i][/b]

I have desired to go
Where springs not fail,
To fields where flies no sharp and sided hail
And a few lilies blow.

And I have asked to be
Where no storms come,
Where the green swell is in the havens dumb,
And out of the swing of the sea.

-Gerard Manley Hopkins

That was short, and I love poetry, so I'm going to give you another:

[b][i]Arbor Vitae[/i][/b]

For grace in me divined
This metaphor I find:
A tree.
How can that be?

This tree all winter through
Found no green work to do--
No life
Therein ran rife.

But with an awoken year
What surge of sap is here--
What flood
In branch and blood.

So grace in me can hide--
Be darkened and denied--
Then once again
Vesture my every vein.

-Siegfried Sassoon

So, poems. Post yours! Ones you've written, ones your Sisters have written, ones you love, ones that have been posted elsewhere.... (I feel like I sound like a peddler. "Turnips! Turnips! Buy your turnips here! Nice, fresh, turnips! Only fifty cents a pound! Buy your turnips here!") Anyway, poems. What are your favorites?

[Byzantine]

[font='times new roman', times, serif][size=5]"Benedictio Domini"[/size][/font]

[size=5][font='times new roman', times, serif][color=#000000]Without, the sullen noises of the street![/color]
[color=#000000] The voice of London, inarticulate,
Hoarse and blaspheming, surges in to meet
The silent blessing of the Immaculate.
Dark is the church, and dim the worshippers,
Hushed with bowed heads as though by some old spell.
While through the incense-laden air there stirs
The admonition of a silver bell.

Dark is the church, save where the altar stands,
Dressed like a bride, illustrious with light,
Where one old priest exalts with tremulous hands
The one true solace of man's fallen plight.
Strange silence here: without, the sounding street
Heralds the world's swift passage to the fire:
O Benediction, perfect and complete!
When shall men cease to suffer and desire?[/color]

[color=#000000]-Ernest Dowson[/color][/font][/size]

Edited November 11, 2012 by Byzantine

[Rosa immaculata]

Ave Maria!

Hum... I think just right now of [b]Pourquoi je t'aime ô Marie, by The Little Therese[/b] (of Lisieux, of course), but I won't put it here, it is easy to find it, because it is very long!!! but so beautiful...
I will see if I have others to share...

[ChristinaTherese]

[quote name='Christina Thérèse' timestamp='1352661770' post='2508168']
So, poems. Post yours! Ones you've written, ones your [b][s]Sisters[/s] Brothers or Sisters[/b] have written, ones you love, ones that have been posted elsewhere.... (I feel like I sound like a peddler. "Turnips! Turnips! Buy your turnips here! Nice, fresh, turnips! Only fifty cents a pound! Buy your turnips here!") Anyway, poems. What are your favorites?
[/quote] Fixed. (Sorry, guys....)
[quote name='Rosa immaculata' timestamp='1352666352' post='2508193']
Ave Maria!

Hum... I think just right now of [b]Pourquoi je t'aime ô Marie, by The Little Therese[/b] (of Lisieux, of course), but I won't put it here, it is easy to find it, because it is very long!!! but so beautiful...
I will see if I have others to share...
[/quote] Is this what you mean? http://www.therese-de-lisieux.catholique.fr/Why-I-love-you-o-Mary.html St. Therese's poems are very long (Well, the two that I've read have been.), but are also very good. Here's the other one I've read: http://www.piercedhearts.org/theology_heart/Poems_of_Saints/live_love_st_therese.htm

[Rosa immaculata]

Yes! It is [i]Why I love you, O Mary?[/i] in English. Really love it, and [i]To Live of love[/i], too!!!

[manymarys]

It's not my absolute favorite poem, but I've been reading a lot of Chesterton lately and really like this one.
The Convert by G. K. Chesterton
After one moment when I bowed my head
And the whole world turned over and came upright,
And I came out where the old road shone white,
I walked the ways and heard what all men said,
Forests of tongues, like autumn leaves unshed,
Being not unlovable but strange and light;
Old riddles and new creeds, not in despite
But softly, as men smile about the dead.
The sages have a hundred maps to give
That trace their crawling cosmos like a tree,
They rattle reason out through many a sieve
That stores the sand and lets the gold go free:
And all these things are less than dust to me
Because my name is Lazarus and I live.

[Starets]

The Hollow Men, by T S Eliot. Way to long to quote
Thou art indeed just, Lord, by Gerard Manley Hopkins
To Keep a True Lent, by Robert Herrick

[ChristinaTherese]

Not really favorites, but I like them, so I'm inclined to shameless quoting of myself:

And so as night in solemn stillness fades
And glorious morn in brightness fills the skies
I lift my eyes unto the hills
And wait for Him to whom my heart thrills

Another one:

"Leave all you have and follow Me."
My God, what do You see?
Why do You even call to me?

I am not worthy to com near to your table,
And yet You promise to make me able.

"My daughter," You call, "I came for you.
Come where I have called you to."

Even though it be in toil and strife,
Lord, I promise I will give You my life.

Those two poems were written in the last couple of years, and I might be submitting one of them or another that I've written for publication in a journal of student work that my school puts out.

[emmaberry101]

The Legend Beautiful (I think that is the title?) by Longfellow (a long one):

"Hads't thou stayed, I must have fled!"
That is what the Vision said.

In his chamber all alone,
Kneeling on the floor of stone,
Prayed the Monk in deep contrition
For his sins of indecision,
Prayed for greater self-denial
In temptation and in trial;
It was noonday by the dial,
And the Monk was all alone.
Suddenly, as if it lightened,
An unwonted splendor brightened
All within him and without him
In that narrow cell of stone;
And he saw the Blessed Vision
Of our Lord, with light Elysian
Like a vesture wrapped about him,
Like a garment round him thrown.

Not as crucified and slain,
Not in agonies of pain,
Not with bleeding hands and feet,
Did the Monk his Master see;
But as in the village street,
In the house or harvest-field,
Halt and lame and blind he healed,
When he walked in Galilee.

In an attitude imploring,
Hands upon his bosom crossed,
Wondering, worshipping, adoring,
Knelt the Monk in rapture lost.
Lord, he thought, in heaven that reignest,
Who am I, that thus thou deignest
To reveal thyself to me?
Who am I, that from the centre
Of thy glory thou shouldst enter
This poor cell, my guest to be?

Then amid his exaltation,
Loud the convent bell appalling,
From its belfry calling, calling,
Rang through court and corridor
With persistent iteration
He had never heard before.
It was now the appointed hour
When alike in shine or shower,
Winter's cold or summer's heat,
To the convent portals came
All the blind and halt and lame,
All the beggars of the street,
For their daily dole of food
Dealt them by the brotherhood;
And their almoner was he
Who upon his bended knee,
Rapt in silent ecstasy
Of divinest self-surrender,
Saw the Vision and the Splendor.
Deep distress and hesitation
Mingled with his adoration;_
Should he go, or should he stay?
Should he leave the poor to wait
Hungry at the convent gate,
Till the Vision passed away?
Should he slight his radiant guest,
Slight this visitant celestial,
For a crowd of ragged, bestial
Beggars at the convent gate?
Would the Vision there remain?
Would the Vision come again?
Then a voice within his breast
Whispered, audible and clear
As if to the outward ear:
"Do thy duty; that is best;
Leave unto thy Lord the rest!"

Straightway to his feet he started,
And with longing look intent
On the Blessed Vision bent,
Slowly from his cell departed,
Slowly on his errand went.

At the gate the poor were waiting,
Looking through the iron grating,_
With that terror in the eye
That is only seen in those
Who amid their wants and woes
Hear the sound of doors that close,
And of feet that pass them by;
Grown familiar with disfavor,
Grown familiar with the savor
Of the bread by which men die!
But to-day, they knew not why,
Like the gate of Paradise
Seemed the convent gate to rise,
Like a sacrament divine
Seemed to them the bread and wine.
In his heart the Monk was praying,
Thinking of the homeless poor,
What they suffer and endure;
What we see not, what we see;
And the inward voice was saying:
"Whatsoever thing thou doest
To the least of mine and lowest,
That thou doest unto me!"

Unto me! but had the Vision
Come to him in beggar's clothing,
Come a mendicant imploring,
Would he then have knelt adoring,
Or have listened with derision,
And have turned away with loathing.

Thus his conscience put the question,
Full of troublesome suggestion,
As at length, with hurried pace,
Towards his cell he turned his face,
And beheld the convent bright
With a supernatural light,
Like a luminous cloud expanding
Over floor and wall and ceiling.

But he paused with awe-struck feeling
At the threshold of his door,
For the Vision still was standing
As he left it there before,
When the convent bell appalling,
From its belfry calling, calling,
Summoned him to feed the poor.
Through the long hour intervening
It had waited his return,
And he felt his bosom burn,
Comprehending all the meaning,
When the Blessed Vision said,
"Hadst thou stayed, I must have fled!"

[OnlySunshine]

[center][b]Wait[/b]
[i]by Russell Kelfer [/i][/center]
[center]
Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried;
Quietly, patiently, lovingly, God replied.
I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate . . .
And the Master so gently said, "Wait."
"Wait? you say wait?" my indignant reply.
"Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!
Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heard?
By faith I have asked, and I'm claiming your Word.
"My future and all to which I relate
Hangs in the balance, and you tell me to wait?
I'm needing a 'yes', a go-ahead sign,
Or even a 'no' to which I can resign.
"You promised, dear Lord, that if we believe,
We need but to ask, and we shall receive.
And Lord I've been asking, and this is my cry:
I'm weary of asking! I need a reply."
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate,
As my Master replied again, "Wait."
So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut,
And grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting for what?"
He seemed then to kneel, and His eyes met with mine . . .
and He tenderly said, "I could give you a sign.
I could shake the heavens and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.
"I could give all you seek and pleased you would be.
You'd have what you want, but you wouldn't know Me.
You'd not know the depth of my love for each saint.
You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.
"You'd not learn to see through clouds of despair;
You'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there.
You'd not know the joy of resting in Me
When darkness and silence are all you can see.
"You'd never experience the fullness of love
When the peace of My spirit descends like a dove.
You would know that I give, and I save, for a start,
But you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
"The glow of my comfort late into the night,
The faith that I give when you walk without sight.
The depth that's beyond getting just what you ask
From an infinite God who makes what you have last.
"You'd never know, should your pain quickly flee,
What it means that My grace is sufficient for thee.
Yes, your dearest dreams overnight would come true,
But, oh, the loss, if you missed what I'm doing in you.
"So, be silent, my child, and in time you will see
That the greatest of gifts is to truly know me.
And though oft My answers seem terribly late,
My most precious answer of all is still . . . Wait."

[i]© 1980 Russell Kelfer. All rights reserved.[/i]


[/center]

Edited November 12, 2012 by MaterMisericordiae

[MarysLittleFlower]

I love these poems [url="http://www.passionistnuns.org/blog/poetry/"]http://www.passionistnuns.org/blog/poetry/[/url]

this one is my favourite poem ever, I think: [url="http://www.passionistnuns.org/blog/poetry/poetry-of-st-paul-of-the-cross/"]http://www.passionistnuns.org/blog/poetry/poetry-of-st-paul-of-the-cross/[/url]

[Julie de Sales]

[u]What I love[/u]

What I love, once said St. Francis of Sales
In his graceful language,
More than all the treasures that this world lays out,
More than all the treasures of heaven:

Yes, what I love more than the flower that is mirrored
On the edge of the transparent waters,
More than the breeze sighs,
More than the sublime flight and the songs of birds,

More than the flood followed by the flood that wipes it off
And it’s whisper that puts me to sleep,
More than the stars, gold glows
Hatched in the fields of wonderful spaces

More than a light casting in the heart of the wicked
Fortunate and strong alarms,
More than the blue eyes of a child
Smiling through his tears,

More than the golden lamp whose light
Radiates in the back of the sanctuary,
More than the sweetest moments of ecstasy and prayer
Spent in the presence of the Lord

More than the Paradise where my soul flies
The Heaven where God awaits me,
And more than the secrets of his Holy Word
That my heart hears in the silence

More than His gentle smile and even His grace
Always radiant, glowing everywhere,
What I love, finally, what I love:
Is the Will of God.

Translation from [url="http://www.icrsp.org/Saints-Patrons/Saint-Francois-de-Sales/ST-FR-DE-SALES.htm"]http://www.icrsp.org...FR-DE-SALES.htm[/url]

Edited November 14, 2012 by Julie de Sales

[BigJon16]

"The Donkey" by GK Chesterton

When forests walked and fishes flew
And figs grew upon thorn,
Some moment when the moon was blood,
Then, surely, I was born.

With monstrous head and sickening bray
And ears like errant wings—
The devil's walking parody
Of all four-footed things:

The battered outlaw of the earth
Of ancient crooked will;
Scourge, beat, deride me—I am dumb—
I keep my secret still.

Fools! For I also had my hour—
One far fierce hour and sweet:
There was a shout around my head
And palms about my feet.

[Catholicterp7]

[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]These are two of my favorites. [/font][/size]

[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Sister Therese Marie TOR has an identical twin sister who is married with (last time I talked to her) four kids. Sister wrote this poem reflecting on how the two vocations are at their heart the same calling. [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Love Lives by Sacrifice By Sister Therese Marie TOR. [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Side by side both stand [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Two sisters [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Best friends [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Once together, sharing a womb [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Now two women [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Two brides [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]With two desires [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Different paths [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]But the same destination [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]There on the altar [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Face to face [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Eye to eye [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]She beholds her spouse [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Before all she declares[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To be one body, one flesh [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Totally given and united [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Poured out until death [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]With him [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To him [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]For him [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Through Him [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Who became one flesh with us. [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Being drawn by this passion [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To make Him loved [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Adored[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Known by all [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]She lied prostrate before the altar [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Before the cross[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Their marriage bed [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Giving up all other desires [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Even holy ones [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]For this one desire [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To be one with Him [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To be radically given [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Completely to Him [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Who radically gave Himself.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]In this beautiful and holy desire they are[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To be one, [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To be known [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To be totally given [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Their love is consummated [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Their union [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]This explosion of love[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Creates a whole new life[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]A life that is this union [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Two bodies [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Two hearts[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Two souls [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Become one [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]In this little embryo [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]In the silence of prayer [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]In the outpouring of charity [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]In the reception of His Body into her very being [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]At the Holy Sacrifice [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]The consummation of their love [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]She become pregnant [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]With love [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]With mercy [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]With grace [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]With an undivided heart she seeks [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Always to be conscious of this divine life [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Conceived within her [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Aware of this new life within them [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Both women radiate joy [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Never has either felt more beautiful [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]More loved [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]More precious to behold [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]As when the gift of life [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Has been entrusted [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To their very being. [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Through blood and through water [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And unspeakable pain [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]She offers her very body [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]This new life is poured fourth [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Becomes visible [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Is held in her arms [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Forgetting any pain [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Their eyes lock [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Her heart melts [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]This mother and child [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Behold one another for the first time [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And rejoice. [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Standing at the foot of the cross [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And gazing on her Beloved [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Through sacrifice [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Through the offering of her heart and body [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Totally to Him [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Through trial, temptation [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]She receives the blood and water [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Gushing from His side[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And pours it forth [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]On all souls [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Thirsting for love [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]This new life of Christ[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Is born to many [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Though invisible to the eye. [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Both awaken in the early hours [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]One to a cry, the other to a bell [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]A helpless child cries out [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]For nourishment [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]For love [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]For his mother [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Souls cry out for prayers [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]The lonely, abandoned, orphaned[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Afflicted and poor [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Who are not know or loved [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Who need a mother [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]She and her spouse share a mission [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To treasure and cherish [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]This child [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]This fruit of their love [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Their world revolves around him [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Dying to selfish desires [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To bring this soul to knowledge [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Of the infinite [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Of the eternal [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Of a tender heavenly Father [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Together she and Jesus [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Share a mission [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To make known the love of their Father [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To all the world [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif][color="#333333"]Desperately[/color][color="#333333"] searching for love [/color][/font][/size][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]For a savior [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To bring them to His eternal throne [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Of love and grace [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Mercy and truth [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And there they shall behold [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]All joy, all fulfillment [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And one by one [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]She shall lock eyes [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]For the first time [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]With her children [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]
[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Two brides, two mothers [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Two journeys of charity and sacrifice [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]United forever [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]In this one [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Eternal destination. [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]

[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]I don't remember the name of this one but I'm pretty sure I found it on the website of the Passionist Nuns in KY. [/font][/size]

[color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]On the hill of skulls, I was to die[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]The sentence was to crucify[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And all that I could say was, “Why?”[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]But none would give me their reply.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]I sent to Him a frantic plea:[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]“Oh, my God, please spare me.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Don’t let them nail me to the tree,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To hang there ‘til the hour of three.”[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]The Roman guard then did say,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]“Woman, you don’t have to pray.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]That man, He wants to take your place[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]To pay for your, & man’s disgrace.”[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]I turned & looked into His face[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And such a face I have not seen[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]In waking hour or in dream.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]For, oh, such love was that of He,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]The God-man Who would die for me[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Standing, white-robed, in a cart[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]His innocence tearing at my heart.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And yet, my character so weak[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]I did not even chance to speak.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]“’Tis easier for Him than me,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]He’s very brave, all men can see.”[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]“He wants YOU to stand by Him,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]He’s paying, woman, for your sin.”[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]“I can’t, I can’t,” my body shook,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]But somehow I turned back to look.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And He that is the only good[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Was stripped & stretched upon the wood.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And as my heart began to pound[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]I knelt behind Him on the ground.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]“Savior, Who dost take my place,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]In my hands, I’ll hold Your face.”[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]“Oh, love that is divine,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Your agony, too, is mine.”[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]And as these words, thank God, I spoke,[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]I startled &, thank God, I woke.[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif] [/font][/size][/size][/font][/color][color=#333333][font='lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif][size=2]
[size=4][font='times new roman', times, serif]Mother Antonia Brenner[/font][/size][/size][/font][/color]


JMJ+

[soubirous]

Have always loved this--

http://www.victorianweb.org/authors/dowson/nuns.html