Contemplation

As I contemplate the Universe,

and the place I hold therein;

As I ponder violence and anger,

and other things thought of as sin,

wars and hate and cruelty,

and evils beyond me and you

am I part of the outcome?

I'm just one . . . what can I do?

"Look inward!" from out of nowhere,

came a whisper in my ear.

"Clean up the tarnish found within;

then nothing shall you fear."

Me" Why I'm not evil- -

I'm pure as the driven snow!

"Look deeply," said the whisper.

And I thought, "Dare I do so?"

I found pride and greed and

judgement, like a vole,

with other vermin

hidden deep within my soul.

"How can this be?" I cried.

"I've always tried to do my best.

I don't do as others do,

I follow not the rest!"

"Ah! But what is the reason

that you try so hard to satisfy?

Are you trying to serve your Lord,

or appear spotless in the world's eye?"

I'd been haughty, smug and placid

until I looked deep into my soul,

now I try to follow where I'm led

and let the Master take control.