February 23–March 1 ❘ Lot’s Argument

Lot’s Argument

I don’t ask for much—not fame,
power, or extraordinary calling.
I don’t covet wide acquaintance.
I enjoy little things: comfortable home,
loyal family, safe living. I want love
and respect only from those I love
and respect. I’d readily leave next-door
strangers to the consequence
of their own lusts,

but I’m caught by contract
between what I want and what I owe.
God gives me no out—I must love
my neighbor and my enemy.
I must deal with this smutty,
smudged-up world against inclination.

So forgive me if I seem irritated,
a bit reluctant to strike a bargain.
I’m trying to fit an ill-suited bill,
testing ways to defend faith
from casual vandals and violators
without becoming a target,
working out what it means
to serve and survive.

I just need a little more time
to finagle a way through this contradiction
before it all blows up in my face.

• Read more of my poetry at www.facebook.com/latterdaysaintpoetry

• Contact me at merrijane.rice@gmail.com