So Softly the Winds Blow

by Mary Naylor

Roses blowing in the wind,
Branches drooping humbly down,
Like a penitent who has sinned,
Shackled in chains, by guilt bound.

Roses unbound, weakly rise,
Like a prisoner released
Into blinding light - he cries -
As contrition shatters peace.

Lilies yearning toward the light,
Amid the spears of resolve,
Dare not move and lose their height,
For fear redemption will dissolve.