Second Fall From Grace Poem by Albert Ahearn

Second Fall From Grace



A priest was strolling in a glorious
Garden next to a church cemetery.
Deep into daily prayers his serious
Reflection had ceased funereally.
From behind a blackberry bush a man
In agonizing pain pled for his help.
Bloodied, near death he desperately scanned
This holy face and said, “you and me dwelt
In the same house for many, many years
Together. Please tend to my wounds. I must
Not die else many things will disappear
With me.” Sir! You think you know me I trust
But I don’t recognize you, in good faith.
“That’s of no consequence, we are soul mates.”

Sir, I do not understand. What’s your name?
“First, look into my eyes, what do you see? ”
The priest peered into them. I see ill fame
“Correct! What else? ” To a higher degree
I see treachery, deceit and falsehood
“ True! I am their inspiration, each sin.
I represent all that is deemed not good
The name I go by today is Satan.”
What! Prince of darkness, the living devil
The infamous enemy of my god?
“The one and only my dear friend, evil
Incarnate, this face is just a facade.”
I’ll not treat your wounds that would ease the pain.
Oh, but you must holy man. I’ll explain.”

“That church and altar, your Sunday sermons
Were built, celebrated and orated
Because of me. Every man and woman
On this earth that was ever created
Knows and fears me due to people like you.
Their lives were and are shaped by your design.
If I die, sin will also perish. Who
Would have need of your shrines
If I did not exist? Now look beyond
Your purpose for living, poor holy man.
Do you wish to sever the unique bond
Between you and me, abandon humans
Or treat my wounds so that I may still thrive? ”
Dejected he chose keeping him alive.

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