Journal of Sacred Work

Days 265-269 – The Proximity of Paradise

Nina Clouds - excellentEveryone has angels & caregivers are guardian versions to so many. Everyone imagines paradise. We sure need both right now.

This is just a poem with a picture I made awhile back.

The Proximity of Paradise

What is the look of paradise?

My angel’s proximity advises.

They track me through the night.

When no one is looking they

create a palace, make my body a cloud,

pour chalices of stars into my lap,

drive away male madness,

cause children to ask why

                            I laugh so much,

And pick clothes

         they know I can see through.

They can change the weather

with a swing of their wings

ring strange bells to warn me

of danger.

I cannot bear how they vanish

when dawn washes the dark

& sunrise hurls me from bed into

 a world where despair-drenched men

pretend that angels are nonsense.

Thank God one just whispered in my ear,

“Paradise is near.

Soon she will be here.” 

-Erie Chapman, 2020

Photograph also by erie

 

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2 responses to “Days 265-269 – The Proximity of Paradise”

  1. Liz Wessel Avatar
    Liz Wessel

    Erie your exquisite poem & angelic rendering take us to an intimate level of your soul’s longing; a depth beyond what any commentary or essay could hope to touch upon…. And with so few words, allowing space for a quieting moment to reflect on their meaning on a personal as well as in a collective sense with all beings. Such is the power of sharing from ones heart.
    When I read your poem this morning what came to mind was the last line in this quote by Mark Nepo. “Sooner or later, just by living, we are reduced to what matters, as so many things we thought were important and irreplaceable are broken or snapped like small branches in a storm. And somehow, we stand taller with less coverings. It is then we begin to feel gratitude, even though it’s hard to be grateful for what is difficult. In this regard, all poems are expressions of truth and gratitude.” Mark Nepo
    Thank you for sharing your truth in such a beautiful and meaningful way.

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  2. Jolyon Avatar
    Jolyon

    Angels are hopes. Messengers to God.
    Angels walking amongst us. Listening.
    God hearing our prayers.
    Messages delivered.
    Phone calls, doorbells ring.
    Open the door to a home health care saint.
    Paradise is sometimes a worry replaced by a healing hand delivered to your door.

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