as an ex-Catholic I must say I loved this poem--well done

Lovely. Do we need religions to communicate to God for us? I don't think so. No matter what most say, fear is the primary factor that drives people into churches. Nature is the natural place to be with God. Nature is closer to heaven. All anyone has to do is hike deep into a mountain range like the Sierras or the Rocky Mountains and spend a few days to understand. Of course a forest, the beach the desert bring the same sense of peace. Even time outside taking a walk under blue skies with crisp air may suffice to spend a moment with God.

outward expressions of compliant faith such as confession and genuflection are no indication of the inner-being truth of the heart. Only God knows that, and it is that that He asks of us. If her only sin is to seek to confess that she is not alone, then who better to confess it to than to the one with whom she is at-one? Nice images, Jude; a rippling-water makeover is always so flattering and upbeat!

Powerful. I don't think a person needs a go between to talk to God..........M

No we need no mediator do we Jude? Stunning poem, sourounded with light.

to commune, with nature as the intermediary -- how could it possibly be any more right? -- certainly, to commune in this manner, is not a nebulous route to the one we seek ultimate council with -- but surely, the most desirable -- your poem is a work of art Jude -- soothingly fluid - peace and love -- JMW

Intriguing image! Especially that little character in the lower right corner. I have to confess too Jude that I find something quite spiritual in the refections of undulating water. Nice write!

Ahhhh Hello Jude, so nice to be back and read your work again! Indeed a thought provoking offering on a topic; no matter what period in time, always seems to be in the top five for discussion! The photo works hand in hand with your deep, thought provoking and inner self reflecting words! Having been born into a most religiously confused family I found it quite good for my soul ;) being left to make my own decision!

Nicole

Spirituality is all about us, if we just pause and listen. Your photo and verse...incredible.

Its been a while since I read one of your poems. This is pure ForEse like only you can write especially using those obtuse verbs like genuflects. Yes there is confession with images. Great Write!
Cheers
Alain

Jude,
An alternative baring of soul and heart may at times work better, a return to what feels natural for release; love the easy fluency of this piece and the pic. to go with it.
John

Preferred to a priest. A poem from the seer of the East[Coast].

Ron

deep thoughts, confession may be good for the soul, but some things are best known only to ourselves.

Bobbi

Jude, that photo is the nearest image I have seen of God, although the images of June '44 on Omaha Beach was the nearest Armageddon image that God wanted us to see.
The poem is so full of truth, you don't need a specific place, any place will do, because He is everywhere, don't He?
Thanks for the inspiration.

Georg

Speaking to the sea is the same as speaking to God anyway...ed

I love the idea here as well as your word choices. There's a very pantheistic feel to this poem - if not panentheistic. The picture is beautiful - all at once lending itself to the literal and the abstract.

I have always had the best luck when I "dial God direct" and skip the intermediary. We all know the truth and can find all the answers we need,within our heart. Taking a moment to be introspective, and perhaps to meld with the greater force of the "One", we find a deeper understanding of the questions to which we are seeking answers. Deep and thought provoking, Jude. Excellent photo, also.
Take care,
Sherry

This poem is as deep as the water in your beautiful photo. I feel a woman on the verge of enlightenment, so drenched in guilt about betraying something that was once sacred to her.
You always make me think and think and think,
Blessings to you Jude,
Peace, love, and light,
Amber "V"

Jude....unique,,,again you bring such perspective to your works!

Wonderfully written Jude. Thank you for sharing and I rate this a 10 out of 10.

May the Lord Jesus bless you, and those whom you love and who love you, and be with you always, and at your side constantly. With much love in my heart, joy to the world, peace on earth & ((((((((((MANY WONDERFUL SISTERLY HUGGGGSSSS)))))))))), your little sister, Barbie

I love the way this one recognizes a higher power and how we can still be spiritual without the crystal palaces that keep us farther from the source, not closer...

fee

Quite thought provoking, Jude, and a captivating picture.

As always such a delight when I read your wonderful writing dear man...stay safe and well...Hugss

as always, your work inspires, thrills and provides grist for thought

Being born a Catholic, I can relate. There's much more here though. I wish I could take her in my arms. Your verses are very effective, Jude. Thank you.

Regis

Intersting. If you can'tconfess in one place, try another.

thought provoking ...both photo and poem
seems like she's unsure of whom to worship
excellent as always...

Liturgical natural hologram...

Sage

cool...both pic and poem

beautiful! words and pic. Be Well, Carin'