Poem: Mixed Signals

Mixed Signals

God parts the Red Sea for Moses
    and thousands are saved;
The Egyptians see that same parting of the waves
    and thousands are killed.

A mother’s outstretched arms
    and the child runs to them for comfort;
Those same outstretched arms
    and the child runs from their confinement.

Seeing great love in her beloved’s eyes,
    this beckoned lover rests her heart in his embrace.
Now in those same eyes, a vacant distance --
    this beckoned lover returns her heart to solitude's peace.

Signals sent in error,
or signals misinterpreted,
whether due to our desires 
or our fears --
Those "mis-takes" can be set right
with clear intention,
    loving reflection,
    compassion for our failings,
    -- forgiveness.

The signals never sent
or those received with indifference
cause the greatest damage.


--meganthemegan 7/5/2007