Repentance is quite different from
regret.
One can feel regret for many years,
Self-castigating to familiar tears,
Having just the grace not to forget.
However, to repent must mean to change.
After the regret must come the will,
So resolute it conquers every hill,
However much one would reduce its range.
Actions only can forgiveness gain.
No thought alone can treat the inner wound
And save the soul that would remain entombed,
Held hostage by its fear of healing pain.
Copyright by Nicholas Gordon. Free for personal or non-commercial use.
Audio and Video Music: Casual Desire. By Ugonna Onyekwe. Music free to use at YouTube.