"Reconciliation"

I do not give
so you, I may impress;
try as I may to live,
failing to provide redress.

I know you cannot be bought
nor would I try
to ignoble someone whose life
does God so dignify.

For what would the treasure be,
if you were to return so easily.
Hard won is your rare allegiance,
that was lost with such negligence.

Redeem me,
let our pain cease
for true I am,
let mercy be;

Restore the promise
of sweet civility;
absolution, confession;
for Christ' sake, reconciliation.


Written by Anne Skelton, 2006. All Rights Reserved. Reprinted with exclusive permission.