ST. FRANCIS’ SOLILOQUY
for Claire Daly
One day, you will be as naked as an animal.
Let that day come before you die.
The wolf will be your friend when you are no longer a wolf.
When you no longer flee from God, birds will no longer flee from you.
They will sit on your shoulder and listen to your song,
your soul’s steady hum.
The lion will welcome you into his pride and rest at your feet.
The peacock will be eager to stand with you.
When you no longer pose in furs and feathers, stealing
a glory that isn’t yours, all glory will be revealed.
When you leave this world the world comes back to you.
And the world will teach you how to love.
Let God pour in.
Then give it all back.
—Steve Turtell