First Steps, Last Breath with Mary

First Steps:
Her virgin arms
reach forth invitingly

Her mother’s heart beats
hopefully so proud

Her humble soul stares,
mutely comprehending

This Child is God
Who stumbles to her arms.

Last Breath:
Her virgin arms stretch forth
to comfort Him

Her mother’s heart beats
painfully so sad

Her humble soul weeps
deeply understanding

This Man is God
Who hangs upon the cross.

By Peg Parke

(Peg Parke is a member of St. Bartholomew Parish in Columbus.) †

The Criterion