
(Adapted from, and with apologies to, Kahlil Gibran)
God’s Fool
Once upon a time, a dreamer came from
His desert home to see the big city.
Ignorant of the city ways and tongue,
He misunderstood hospitality
As banquets, bestowed by benevolent
Princes, to celebrate a great event.
When brought before the judge, he saw a king,
And heard the arguments as a welcome.
His expulsion under police escort
Became a procession, just so awesome,
That the dreamer’s heart filled with ecstasy,
And he shouted to a friend, “Where are we?”
That man only smiled, shook his head so slight;
The dreamer’s eyes had overflowed with light.
(written June 21, 1992)