Divine Alchemy

James P. WestWhat precious metal now is being wrought?
This day when all is dark as pitch or coal
The truth of life, is this the prize yet sought
Or have long years eclipsed that human goal.

Cold irony so many should have died
Forsaking life, with faith in virtuous laws,
Forgive their folly that they ever tried
If unattained, abandoned be that cause

Yet deep within earth’s forge a new spark burns
Replacing ashen dreams with radiant hope
And kindling lifeless forms with souls that yearn
For alloys universal in their scope

With alchemy unequalled God unfolds
His will that turns dross lead to purest gold.

c. James P. West 2010  Wayward: Selected Poems