Forever blinded by a shameful past—

Nothing but retribution left to see,

Reliving memories ever more aghast

Forever bound to was, not what could be.

Still haunted by old grievances long gone,

Unable yet to turn the other cheek,

Not knowing that the truth of being strong

Lies in the quiet courage of the meek;

Forgiving not forgetting vile sin—

For to forget ensures that naught is learned,

All journeys need a point where they begin;

What future lies upon a past that’s burned?

Ashes to ashes, dust to dust presumed;

Yet what to gain when hate by hate’s exhumed?