Approaching Easter, here is a version of the Poppy theme hoping for redemption and new life.

ESCAPE FROM THE POPPY
(after FRANCIS THOMPSON)

Oft through the coiling mists I hear your tread.
Good Shepherd, lift me to your aching heart.
Over my ruined life, the dawn warms red:
Your invitation to another start.

The fractured pieces tear my skin.
The rising ruddy light shines on the mess:
All the false starts! Can I again begin
To climb the path your leading footsteps bless?

Morpheus grips me with his sweet nirvana:
The safety of Nothing for my thwarted soul:
Poppies’ red promise! Oh, the empty charmer,
Hiding the map, no need to strive for goal.

Oh, broken Jesus, stretched on Calvary,
You spurned the drug they offered to your pain.
Still, through my broken life, my eyes can see
Your wounded hand, to lift me up again.