On this Holy Day
no obligation takes part
in the love and respect I feel for you,
dearest Mary, Queen of Hearts.
No need for men to declare
you are woman beyond compare.
Nor need to justify your place
with convoluted tales of grace.
You bore the heavy pregnancy gait
and the seemingly endless 9 months wait,
a grueling trek by foot and donkey
away from safety and into mystery.
You sheltered in the meanest space
and kept up with Joseph’s heartier pace
as women are so often wont to do
for men and children in need of you.
You entertained guests who came to view
the wonder of Light renewed by you.
When you likely most needed rest
you gave your all to all your guests.
And then you fled as Joseph’s dream
must have made you want to scream.
All to keep your loved ones safe and sound.
Your strength and love are so profound.
And still you give to all of us here now
your grace and love and keep your vow
made through Angel Gabriel in ages past;
a promise that to this day still lasts.
“Behold,I am the handmaiden of the Lord;
Let it be done to me according to your word.”
Such a pure heart needs no more explanation.
The Light always carried within you is our salvation.
A feast day for an Immaculate Conception
sounds like a useful mansplain deception.
I overlook my useless eye-rolling emotion
and give you, dear Mary, my full devotion.
annarino writes 