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For What It's Worth

by Ken Harnisch

Sometimes I ponder the sins I would commit
To hold you again,
and in my mind, make argument
With St. Peter as to why this was no sin at all, but
The crying need of a heart destined by choice or
Chance never to give its all in any forum or to
Any being openly.
 
 There is always a shroud, a
Curtain, a wall, behind which it must play a game
Of Hide-and Seek, and counting by fives to a hundred
Opens its eyes to know the players have fled- again-
Then weeps in its secret warrens that such teasing is unfair;
Unworthy of a God of grace and fate and compassion.
 
And St. Peter yawns, quite tired of repeating
 the mantra
That Life is unfair, and so it is, but having held you once,
I cannot think Life would ever be cruel enough to deny me
The chance to do it again.
But St. Peter would say:
Such a fate, while perhaps warranted by patience, would
Not be worthy of a soul seeking his redemption.
 
And I would weigh
That, and contemplating eternity against the
Consequence of a lover’s questionable lapse, tell the Gatekeeper,
To his surprise, that your embrace, anew,  would be worth the price
Of my salvation.

06/18/2008

Posted on 06/18/2008
Copyright © 2024 Ken Harnisch

Member Comments on this Poem
Posted by George Hoerner on 06/18/08 at 03:25 PM

Isn't that the truth? Great write.

Posted by Melissa Arel on 06/18/08 at 04:42 PM

WOW. This poem is amazing.

Posted by Nanette Bellman on 06/18/08 at 09:38 PM

The things we're willing to do for love. Great read.

Posted by Joy Sy on 06/19/08 at 02:29 AM

Sometimes Love trumps religion

Posted by Glenn Currier on 06/19/08 at 04:59 AM

Your poem draws me into its embracing passion and longing, into its poignant remembering. Your creativity and artistry continue to amaze me. I am so happy to be back here at your oasis for a wonderful, refreshing drink.

Posted by Lauren Singer on 06/19/08 at 12:14 PM

if that didnt win her over--nothing will. just beautiful.

Posted by Kristine Briese on 06/19/08 at 03:16 PM

Your poems always take me to such beautiful places, and they often make me wish I was in love with someone.

Posted by Chris Sorrenti on 06/21/08 at 07:08 PM

The coupling of religion and romance works superbly here Ken. A refreshingly different change of direction that set this poet happily on his derriere. Kudos!

Posted by Tony Whitaker on 06/22/08 at 05:26 AM

Love is never a sin, if it is truly love and not just lust. Beautifully done Ken....

Posted by Maria Massarella on 06/22/08 at 06:30 PM

I imagine this handwritten - the page exuding romance before the words are ever read. Simply beautiful.

Posted by Maria Massarella on 06/22/08 at 06:38 PM

... because a rose has the fragrance of romance beyond whatever be the thorns or the sins that need be redeemed ... and in your poem I feel the presence of a rose ...

Posted by Kristi Paik on 06/23/08 at 09:07 PM

i can only say wow. For what its worth: I cant imagine a higher power that would deny someone that is clearly passionate about this person. truly amazing write ken.

Posted by Sandy M. Humphrey on 06/25/08 at 09:20 PM

With style and grace you have made your debate so heartfelt and beautiful that even a Saint would have to consider it, and it is the conversational tone that you have with the Saint that makes this poem for me. The spirituality you embrace and struggle with as if peering over your shoulder as you pen this lovely romantic verse. I am in awe. smh.

Posted by Carolyn Coville on 08/12/12 at 07:21 PM

I don't know how I missed this gorgeous piece, but I'm so glad I found it. Definitely one of your best.

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