The Angels

We, unaccustomed to courage
exiles from delight
live coiled in shells of loneliness
until love leaves its high holy temple
and comes into our sight
to liberate us into life.

Love arrives
and in its train come ecstasies
old memories of pleasure
ancient histories of pain.
Yet if we are bold,
love strikes away the chains of fear
from our souls.

But even the angels who touch our hearts
cannot find this mystery.
They are subject unto Him
to minister according to His command--
every word.
And by setting up stakes
miss the mark of freedom.

It is time to be weaned from your timidity
In the flush of love's light.
Dare be brave!
And suddenly you will see
that love costs all you are
and will ever be.
Yet it is only love
which sets you free.

Look to the ancients
and remember their pain.
Cite your minds forward
to the time of ecstasies.
Be bold, and bless all
who travel on your road.
Then will cords of bondage fall.

And not only for you.