TO ADOLESCENCE

Once again, as at the very beginning
when, slowly the eyes open themselves
to an unknown world: his new life is stirring.
Differently. It’s burgeoning, amid the dangerous world
harboring his newfangled quests.

Long ago, as limbs began to grow nimble
as eyes could see well and voice could express,
as mind began comprehension: life
burst forth, full blown, ready to be used for exploring,
thrusting running feet and hands forth,
mind twirling: not yet reined in
by consequences except by loving arms:
ceaseless vigor finally felled by slumber.

O let him be bathed in Light. Your Light.

But now: new awareness, new defenses,
new exaltation plunging toward manhood:
toward the mortal dance twixt good and evil.

O, let his Creator find entrance; Let Him be seen
in His splendor, and let His Wisdom be inhaled.
Let prayers on youths’ behalf be many and steady
as the prince of this world attempts to entangle his soul.
Let him find the hidden ivory door
opening to the narrow path, leading to Glory.
Let him hike, and struggle along it, lifted by prayer:
all through his story.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge
(Proverbs 1:7)