We humans shed our skin
every 7 years or so.

The average human then
mathematically
serves through 10-11
possible purgatories
in their lifetime.

Life beings with birth.

Or does it?

Who is to say
that Purgatory is not now?

Global warming.
Constant fighting.
Gunfire.
Republicans.
Democrats.
Priests.
Murderers.
Rapists.
Lawyers.

Many would agree
that Purgatory is next,
after death, in some state
of uncertainty, of limbo,
to temporarily wash sins
and find judgment.

Is this place
not a chance
for judgment already?

We all know of many people
who are religious, even
purveyors of God's words
that are downright evil.

Organized religion
is based upon a grand version
of the telephone game.

Who is to say
death is not measured
by aging or health,
but instead
the knowledge and experience
acquired through existing?

When a certain enlightenment
is attained marks the end of “life.”

Where is it written
that life is life
and the meaning within
is defined by itself?

If I had a conversation
with myself of 2000
using these concepts
I now conjure
would it be as if
we were both speaking
in different languages?

Concepts so large
that I was too “young”
to possibly fathom the meaning?

Perhaps I still exist
because I have not grasped
all there is to attain?

Most would say
Purgatory is after death,
and somewhat necessary even with
all its negative connotations.

But I ask:
Why wait for judgment?

09/14/2012

Author's Note: I feel like I've barely scratched the surface of this idea.

Posted on 09/14/2012
Copyright © 2024 Jeffrey Parren