hell, i will not take

a shared vision
lost
a complete picture
fragmented
where is the truth i believed in
where is the light that didn't extinguish
have the flames been doused
or the dream forgotten

a silent cry to God
unheard
a stifled scream
unnoticed
where has the bubbling joy within gone
where is the endless pool of fire
has winter stolen the sunshine in my heart
or darkness crept its way in quietly

a much desired kindness
a welcome reprieve
engaged me in a long-drawn out game of hide-and-seek
eluding me and escaping my grasp
where is my anchor now?

has it started -
the hell that descends this time of year
or is heaven just around the corner
and strength i have not to turn that bend

but till i see heaven's glory appear before my eyes again
hell, i will not take
though its briberies are many and rich
for i know heaven's gates are
just one more step, just one more wall
away
bring them on then for i will take them down
one by one

~ Philothea