Homo Sapiens

Untitled Work by Joan Miro

(Originally posted June 2013)

human taxonomy
transcends the physical

bi-pedal brain size
opposable thumbs
and posture erect
are mere pretexts
to unlink the chain

metaphysics marks
deeper distinctions
of man among mammals
even for those
torn and troubled
by notions of soul

simply recognize
unique capacities
men have for
laughter and mercy

that leaves open however
the question of
whether a man
who can’t laugh
or forgive
is anything more
than a beast

Pangs

 

“Hidden Guilt” by John Terwilliger

 

 

astringent elixirs

abrasive with punishing pulp

wash the mortified flesh

of the soul

peccant and thirsting for mercy

knowing its only source sleeps

in the tissues

of conscience

 

 

Atonement

“Repentance” by Nicholas Roerich

 

ripping reams of apologies
demonstrates nothing
they die upon heartbroken ears
blow away on the stench
deep transgression emits

remorse draws no mercy
unless and until it’s performed
over gradual time through
repeated acts of repentance
despite their repeated rejection

wounded trust can’t be healed
without proof of sincerity
promises must persevere when
you’re lucky enough to have
even a slim second chance

best would be to remember
the motto that hangs in the streets
over doorways to life
if you can’t do the time
then don’t do the crime

otherwise
the hairshirt
is yours
my friend

Fourteen Years

“World Trade Center”
Painting by Hall Groat II
From dailypainters.com

what mercy exists
but for justice
compassion not
tended by judgment
creates moral danger
unjust forgiveness
the purview of men
who pretend to have
God’s own omniscience
each heart needs
a mind to examine
the aptness of
gentle intentions
to validate virtue
or risk grave injustice
a foiling of notions
of fairness and equity

time does not heal
fourteen years
in which justice has
hardly been served
fourteen years
haven’t softened the
pain of the wounds
to my family humanity
pain that precludes
any semblance
of mercy my hatred
as real and as raw
as it was on that
beautiful terrible
September morn

I will never forget
I can never forgive