by LJ Frank
solemn music emanated from above
permeating the cathedral’s nave
banners hanging in uplifting reverence
the light was a spiritual shower
through tall, arched stained glass windows
as if in prayerful meditation
fresh flowers arranged in colorful vases
placed on engraved pedestals
the fragrance was beguiling
this side of a Bless You
the fashion and glamour of self-awareness
a different hue and tone of desire
the couple knelt at the altar
an invocation shared in murmurs
the ordained minister graciously nodded
and the confessor’s veil was lifted and untied
from that which had been knotted
with rituals, rules and sanctions like a baroque adagio
followed by a French kiss
and a soon to be ex-partner
the sign of a new beginning
the organist pressed down on the keys
his pipe organ voiced in celebration
a Bach like pronouncement filled the air
and the parishioners knowingly approved
with lips stretched across their faces
in praise.
still, it would be a lengthy day
as others were waiting in queue
though fraught with polarized familiarity
now minted
with innovative allegiances
amid ecclesiastical and political theatre
and the expertise of financial trappings
a stream of conscious behavior anew
infusing the hushed palpitations
the spirit of the time brought tasteful joy –
and rose pedals greeted the couple
as they exited the sanctuary apart
with two taxis waiting next to the curb
and the drivers wearing tuxedos
standing erect
with boxes of chocolate in hand as an offering
and the Truth was affixed on top –
A Revised Translation of Wisdom.