Unconditional

I glory in plain-speaking, the austere
and careful art of being understood
and showing by one's words and works the clear
delineation of both bad and good.

I grasp the opposition in all things,
the need to study out and set apart.
Joy cannot be without matched suffering—
and yet, disquiet murmurs in my heart.

Adept at separation, I lack skill
in making peace with foes, in being one.
Peculiar as I am, I seek God's will,
but can't half emulate the paragon

of One who loves to infinite degree,
who pleads for both my enemy and me.

• Read more of my poetry at www.facebook.com/latterdaysaintpoetry

• Contact me at merrijane.rice@gmail.com