September 1st

“For I was envious of the arrogant;
    I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Psalm 73:3

they drive those shiny cars
which become pied pipers
for the empty yearning in our hearts.
they have mansions, apartments
in many cities, and act as if
a yacht is simply another rowboat,
and it is no wonder that
our souls turn a shade of green.
so whisper to us of the reality
that things made from metal rust,
that barnacles attach to everything,
that they have no real homes,
just tons of property as if life
is a game of Monopoly.
and turn our gaze toward you,
toward that Beloved Community
of justice, welcome, and compassion
where envy finds no soil
in which to plant its seeds
and grace grows wild and free.

© 2025 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman