Do not spend
too much time
on the demons.

I know water
is rising.

I know the guard
is sleeping.

But know that
the devil’s game
is in undoing.

And all it takes
is to hold your gaze
just long enough
for the angels
behind you
to quit singing.

Your game
is to prune
the roses.

Cultivate so much
beauty
and stillness
in your life
that when the barbarians
break through
and burn it all,
God will shed a tear
and the demons will shudder
at the light.

This is the great secret.

The devil rejoiced
at the spotless Man
on the Cross.

Until a mortal cry
overcame him
when he saw
that by his hand
was delivered
a perfect offering
to God.