MY PLEA

by Carol Werner

 I saw the suffering sinners in a valley if despair
And heard their woeful wails reverberating in the air -
Despised despots of evil, castigated for their share
In spreading wrong, by those who suffered wounds beyond compare.
 OH LORD, HAVE MERCY ON THESE!

 I viewed a thousand faces lifted up with pleading eye
 And heard the silent sobbing of a thousand hearts denied.
 The centuries old, unanswered question on their lips said, "Why?"
 Discrimination, separation - is it justified?
DEAR LORD, HAVE MERCY ON THESE!

 I saw the struggle of young souls, as tender roots reached out
 For nourishment to satisfy the dreadful, inner drought.
 As arms and tongues failed out in pain, reacting to a doubt
Which ultimately killed their faith, they struggled on without.
PLEASE LORD, HAVE MERCY ON THESE!

 I watched the world in torment, and I heard its mournful plea.
 I felt the suffering of humankind, the yearning to be free.
Oh Lord, I looked and looked - and yet, I really did not see!
I could have helped Thy people in their need, but I failed Thee.
 MY LORD, HAVE MERCY ON ME!