Rhyme pattern: 1.2.1.1.2

“Two roads” diverge throughout each day (1)
Of death to self, or selfishness
A mystic from Mount Carmel’s way (2)
About these roads has much to say
To train us all in lasting happiness

This champion of the Cross advises
To choose the roads “to life” though thorn’d*
To shun the widened roads, is wisest
But loud and sharp the flesh-cry rises
Steep and prickling paths by all are scorned

To borrow from a ‘Frosty’ bard
To pick the trails “less traveled by”
Makes “all the difference”, though so hard
Christ’s narrow way is gain, regard
To tread the Master’s steps, there treasures lie

So give your friend the final word
And sprint, not slink, the extra mile*
Give ear to folks most leave unheard
Who heist your time (your plans deferred)
Make light this Cross: see Christ in them and smile

Your preferences let others steal
Relieve their pains; their burdens bear
For only string-less love can heal
The wounds they may not see, but feel
Such love transmits the Bridegroom’s balm and care

These higher roads will end in vain
Without the alchemy of prayer
That turns to grace the offered pains
Denying self with Him Who reigns *
The diff’rence such roads make?

Beyond compare

*****

(1) Poem inspired by Robert Frost’s poem, “The Road Not Taken” (link) and by certain words of Jesus Christ oft quoted by St. John of the Cross
(2) St. John of the Cross
*Quotes from Jesus in the Gospels