Through shadowed streets our footsteps echo.
Between shuttered windows we pass.		
Candles flickering in dimmed glow.		
Votives on the way to mass.	

This is not the world where we belong. 
Our home is in a distant place. 
Our language is soft yet strong. 
We speak of our Gods' perfect grace.	 

Curious eyes peek between curtains. 
They cannot hear our solemn prayer.	
With fear they question our votives. 			
And they reject the love we share. 

In time we will pass beyond this veil. 
Arriving at that distant shore. 	
Safe from this worlds cruel assail. 
Welcomed those who have gone before. 

MJ Flack