Confession

I kneel and confess, my father confessor, reverend!
Too much I loved the intoxication of biting words,
Ecstasy with rapture and murmuring crowds,
Where uselessness paired with the unpleasant.

Until Jesus Christ once looked straight into my eyes
And said: this must end with your flimsy excuses.
He clapped his hands and suddenly—bang!—
I lay among daisies and trampled earth.

Your stole, Father, may I touch it? I kiss your sleeve.
May your maniple lift me from hell’s pit!
Forgive me—or I shall ask Our Lady.

Though to my shame I must face my guilt,
I wrestle with remorse in tears of repentance,
And will surpass myself in penance.

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