Lotus

 
Lotus

Beneath the sullied waters,
deep, in the muddy mire,
comes an airy stem,
a searching tip of fire.

It struggles at the first,
from out that messy space,
then floats upon a dream,
into some hallowed place.

We think that we may drown,
before it breaks the surface,
then find that just by letting go,
it rises through its own grace.

And when it sits atop,
that still and bright new day,
the petals open up,
in some heavenly display.

How can it be that such as this,
could come from out that place,
such beauty grown within a womb,
from slime and past disgrace.

It is the truth of all great things,
that from the dark and sallow,
can come the sweetest petaled wings,
a light from out the shadow.

And you who bore such misery,
and kept that flame alight,
sweet perfumed gift of lotus bloom,
you are God's great delight.

© Richard Michael Parker 2011



Artwork by Lorraine Sumners