I whisper a votive prayer

By the holy shrine’s radiant light

Deep within this earthen cave

Surrounded by rock and stone rises

I lift my eyes as well as my heart

Toward the most beautiful empyrean garden

Soft scattered layers

Of green leaves and woodland debris

Hide the well-worn walking path

Here, in fields of sweet Lavender and ever-blooming Roses – – A sweet bath

Fills this morning’s air with soul nourishing scents

I only hope this day

Brings understanding and peace

That we don’t choose to keep it at bay

Stopping short

We turn away from a neglected peace

Toward only the wretched pains of war

I whisper a votive prayer

Believing prayer light will travel over vast distances

Finding our hearts aglow in time