The Substance of Angels

 

I have surely walked with angels,

Through my deepest darkest night,

Called to comfort they have held me,

Brought me safely to the light.

At my heels the prince of devils,

Demon herds like screaming swine,

All they promised was my glory,

Sweet contentment, heady wine.

 

See within this pale reflection,

Mirrored by the blackest flame,

He who fell but still is calling,

Calling me to own his name.

Touch a hand and feel the pleasure,

Drawn and damned to dreams sublime,

Flourish then in fallen nature,

Lost to hope and slaves to time.

 

Swords like lightning clashed above me,

Shields like scripture braced my soul,

Lambs blood daubed above the doorway,

Passing over, safe and whole.

I have surely walked with angels,

They like lovers claim my heart,

I can feel their arms enfold me,

Close and caring not apart.

 

Lead me on to greater wonders,

Knowing though that I must fail,

Bondsman to my pride and anger,

Peace to be my holy grail.

Heap and burn my earthly riches,

Melt my envy in the blaze,

Lead me to the aesthetes treasure,

Cast aside my wayward ways.

 

I can hear the seraphs footfall,

Lighter than the falling snow,

Pointed whispered words of comfort,

Telling me the way to go.

If god there is and god is listening,

Maybe this is just a prayer,

I have needed these companions,

Both in hope and dark despair.

 

Still I see the dark ones waiting,

Raging, lusting for my brain,

Comprehending all my reason,

Authors then of all my pain.

Make me then to walk with angels,

Armed by them against the storm,

Messengers of greater glory,

Spirits sent in earthly form.