Author Archives: jackpelham

Is there nothing from the pastThat’s worth saving? Nothing worth defendingOr preservingOr valuing?

I suppose I have learnedThe beginning of wisdom—If I am not overestimating myself—But it is now quite apparent to meThat I will not see the end of itIn this life.

So far in this crazy world—In all that has happenedSince the beginning—Not one bit of itHas been impossible.

There she sits, ready to pounceOn the least little suggestionThat God actually expects the ChristianTo do anything.

We could be friendsIf I were certain you Would not hurt me— Or if I were brave enoughTo risk it, not being sure.

He beholds the horseAnd marvels at the being that it is—Its noble bearing—Its undeniable presence.

It is nothing for youTo enter by the exitOr to drive the wrong wayOr to park across two spaces.

He does wellWho learns to careAbout the pastAnd the future— Who broadens the scopeOf his awarenessBeyond his own Immediate concerns—

This is just your first body.And if things go well,You’ll be given a second.

How difficult for the creature To want to submit himselfTo the will of his Creator— And harder still—Having decided to want it—To manage to live that way!