IN THE ARMS OF MARY

Mother Mary take us
in your arms so soft and sweet,
press us close, unto your heart
lull us with each soothing beat.

All your roses have turned wild
prune away the prickly thorns,
that choke and maim our souls so lost
so battered, bruised and torn.

We’ve tried to do it on our own
the hard and lonely way,
forgive our lapse of memory
take us to your heart today.

Take us, Mary, by the hand
defend and teach us day by day,
how to walk the narrow road
nevermore to go astray.

Margaret Rose Larrivee
Apr. 29, 1994