While I sought to do no harm
While his curse was still beyond me
I flogged myself for the riling of another
Did I unthoughtfully incur this wrath?
Was it within myself to turn this one away?
Was the turning the caused of this …
flogged myself for the turning from another
Did I with all intent seek this one?
Befriend did I this one without thought?
Befriended, did I deny the trust?
I flogged myself for the denying of another
The curse now falling so close on ear
Weep heart of mine for what is lost
Weep to be seen and to be not to this one
I flogged myself for the being of another
My soul now cursed by one who once loved
With the love that few who find know
With no touch of the mortal hand
I flogged myself for the love of another
I flog myself no longer? ask I
But still with broken skin bare and brined
The other I have flogged and not myself
Pray my soul finds its peace and finds its piece
Whose heart really lay bare at my coming
Lay open at my right to depart
Lay open at my right to stay
Pray the soul of this one finds its peace
My heart in tiny pieces
Lays before me on the ground
Lays before family and friend
And not one of us bend down
© 1996 Tim D. Coulter Sr.