Symbolism and Reality
Now that the chalice has been lit
we can shrink the gas flame a bit.
Meant to be an eternal flame
it was cold and unlit when i came.
Why should a symbol of eternity
be brought to life by heretics like me?
Considering all the things i doubt
i expect this candle will go out.
A symbol and a ritual
is nothing but habitual.
I suppose the longer i live
there are less things i can forgive.
These rituals, worship, and creeds
don’t answer my spiritual needs.

Walt Abbott–8-29-08s