Directed from Within

Between the covers of leather on pages of thin paper

I sought your words, and learned much of what I know,

but when I closed the book, and rose to do your will

serving those I found in need of word, or deed, I found you.

As I went about your mission, directed daily from within,

I found myself reaching out to those I would have shrunk from.

I met spirits, bruised, but recognizable as belonging to you,

and no different than myself, in other circumstances.

I looked into faces, that raised eyes from the ground

to whisper thank you, and I echoed that gratitude to you,

for giving me the opportunity to step outside my selfishness,

and take up the challenge to serve my fellow man.