Consuming Fire

Poetry - 2024 Alumni Creative Writing Contest Winner - First Place

I was taught terror

In the shadow of cathedral spires

Under the glowering gaze of immortal saints

Of the judgement impending

Wrath--bright, brazen, burning

Reserved for the doubting, debauched, depraved

Destined for a lake that flames

Body, mind, and soul--in the end, consumed.

I was shown truth

In the light of sacred presence

From the wondrous words of a gentle, ancient voice

Of forgiveness unending

Love--bold, brilliant, blazing

Offered to the hurting, hungry, hopeless

Pursued with a devotion that flames

Body, mind, and soul--in the end, consumed.