He felt ostracised from all
kith and kin,
His acerbic tongue lashed
out too often.
Life’s challenges had tempted
his efforts,
Losing was not in his
psyche or outlook.
Hypocrites trod lightly on his toes
in fear,
His sermons were loud and passionate.
Love was a cool affair in
his experience,
Rebutting closeness once
it ever evolved.
Words of any kindness
stuck in his craw,
His flock sat riveted into
their cold pews.
Belief was unquestioning in
any measure,
One wondered if a softer heart
ever existed.
He stood his ground upon
the marble pulpit,
Black robes encased his cold
human persona.
His brows lines always
furrowed in an angst,
The God of love must
surely frown upon him.
Those virtues etched within
biblical soundings,
Surely rancour can in time
accept malleability.
This shepherd’s
self-possession quite misguided,
Bitterness served to
isolate any viable godliness.
©Copyright Eileen T O’Neill 04/05/2015
No wonder he felt ostracised...normal beings would naturally want to keep a safe distance from him but he is quite a character....a perfect portrayal Eileen....
ReplyDeleteQuite a resounding quality to this piece..! :D
ReplyDeleteLots of love
xoxo
This poem paints a picture of someone who might have done more harm than good from the pulpit. It would be difficult to speak of the love of God if not a loving person oneself.
ReplyDeleteAny religion preaching radical thoughts of destroying world in essence can never know of god's love.
ReplyDeleteBeautifully described. I've known a couple like that! Lia
ReplyDeleteOh my what a sad person. Excellent description -- I recognized who ever this is immediately. I think they are everywhere unfortunately.
ReplyDeleteWell written and felt.
ReplyDeleteZQ
Poor man! Carrying dead form when live faith might add smile lines and endear him to others. Quite a portrait, EIleen.
ReplyDeleteYou've brought a fire and brimstone preacher to mind.
ReplyDelete