Category Archives: grace

The Storming of the Fortress

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Words hard as stone bombard the castle walls,
hurled with precision to break my defense,
all heedless of the wintry rain that falls.
A breach is opened in the outer fence.

The gate shivers beneath unflinching blows,
and soon the dauntless warrior gains the keep.
I hide myself, but all too well he knows
the passages that lead into the deep

and lightless chamber where my soul would stay
in silent shadows rather than surrender.
His footsteps near, and now the door gives way.
His grip is strong — but, oh, his voice is tender!

I give myself up; finally I see:
he frees me from myself, in spite of me.

~ Rebekah Choat

 

Thanksgiving

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image by Rebekah Choat

image by Rebekah Choat

Is this one short November day all we can spare
to think of and give thanks for gifts beyond all count?
Too soon the coming season’s pressures start to mount –
just for today can we choose to set by our care?

To be all here, this moment, just to breathe this air,
to savor this day’s grace, to catch the murmured sound
of music in the voices of those who surround
this table, taste the joy in this meal that we share?

Let us be centered in the circle where we are,
with eyes to see the simple pleasures all around,
hearts whole and open to the blessings of this place;
keep kinship with friends gathered here and scattered far,
be mindful that we stand always on hallowed ground,
in gratefulness for solid underpinning grace.

 ~ Rebekah Choat

Garden Charm

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image by Rebekah Choat

image by Rebekah Choat

Lavender, rosemary, marjoram, mint,
Sweetest of herbs in my garden close,
Gracing the morning with their mingled scent,
Lavender, rosemary,marjoram, mint.

Lavender, rosemary, marjoram, mint,
Holiness, purity, safety and peace,
Comfort, remembrance, healing, content,
Lavender, rosemary, marjoram, mint.

Lavender, rosemary, marjoram, mint,
Happiness, respite from sorrow, heart’s ease,
Brightness and deep breath and friendly intent,
Lavender, rosemary, marjoram, mint.

Lavender, rosemary, marjoram, mint,
Sweetest of herbs in my garden close,
Gracing the morning with their mingled scent,
Lavender, rosemary, marjoram, mint.

~ Rebekah Choat