Old Simeon's Blessing

Blessings

on this radiant child.

I'll smear his head 

with bitter oils, cool 

his brow with the waters

of paradise, 

and with sweet incense

raise to heaven

his soul!

...but I fear for the life

my failing eyes foresee

how the rich of this land

will fear him, strike him down,

covet even the air

he breathes,

and you, daughter,

the soldiers will pierce 

your tender breast

with heavy swords

tear an open wound

deep in your heart, 

to be a sanctuary

for all the mothers

of all the children

yet to be slain.

Most blessed

are you, my child, most holy

is your name.

        

 *

ref: Lk 2:34-35

(7 Jan. 2013)