-- What Jewels These -–

John Herlihy

What jewels these I have,

But did not even recognize.

What favors I seek from others,

That I should by rights despise.

What do I think I have to offer,

The gifts of potentates and kings?

What measly recompense is there,

From the meager blessing life brings.

Is topaz of Ethiopia equal to my touch?

Could I value the gold of Ophir as much?

What be gates of ivory near my open lips,

With gold-plated leaves as my fingertips?

Diamonds cannot be equal to my eyes,

Eyes that encompass infinity of skies.

Is not our hearing a sublime treasure,

Its harmonious cords beyond measure?

The perfume of Sheba could never tell,

Of the exotic beauty in paradisal smell.

What labyrinths compare to mine ears,

To listen to my joys, sorrows, and fears?

Is not my sight but a remarkable jewel,

With such visions of hope and renewal?

Honey and lemons never stop my thirst,

But the taste of Paradise I consider first.

My hands cupped and raised in prayer,

My eyes look forward and simply stare.

My knees bear the load of Gethsemane,

My noble head bowed in God’s proximity.

My feet will take me to where I want to go,

My mind will lead me to what I must know.

My body, mind, heart wrapped in divine glow,

With the sublime gifts the Divinity did bestow.

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(c) John Herlihy 9 January 2019