A Wish And A Prayer

The only difference between a wish and a prayer is that you’re at the mercy of the universe for the first, and you’ve got some help with the second. - Jodi Picoult

floating high

magic pixie dust

hits of ecstasy

dropped acid

white parasols

rolled up like marijuana cigarettes

all sidewalks are built by men

leading to establishments of other men

where cash registers ring

when the winds of fortune switch direction

new pathways form

dust is scattered in a new direction

where truth is counted in meaningless, unmarked bills

a sort of sad, sacrilegious skid row

dirt paths flanked by trampled, bent weeds

scorched footprints in the desert

not leading where we desire or expect

prayers dance on the tips of tongues

candles flicker in the breeze

whether we like it or not

Author's Note

“All good things are wild and free.” - Thoreau

Reviews

[John the Baptist]

I see here a comparison between the "enlightenment" provided by substances and that by faith in a Higher Power. The speaker sees mainly a for profit industry in the former, often ending in personal ruin. The latter is not discussed as much, but the last three lines hints at its inevitability. Powerful piece here, sparely worded and very focused.

[Pete]

wow, yes indeed. wasn't sure if anyone would really get this. there is a stark contrast between these two powerful forces in the city i am currently living in and felt it deserved a write. substance is nearsighted and faith is 20/20. as always, thanks for seeing truth j. the b. ... :)