A father lifted protective shawl
off his shoulders
To gently drape
onto crown of departing daughter
His heart and love wrapped
into one little bundle
round her face
then to each side
one fringed edge atop the other
finally tucked over her shoulder
Covered against world's icy chill
Gray homespun cloth of no particular worth
now held his greatest treasure on earth
Moist lingering gaze
bestow cherished blessing
And plant within each of their hearts
prophetic threads that weave and bind
through unmeasured distance
of eternal place and time
Scene stirs remembrance
of a sacred pattern
and veiled moment
near Kolob's door
When glorious Father there bid good bye
with moistened eyes and anointed blessing
upon His beloved child
leaving for earth's distant shore
Who one day upon her temple shelf
like protective shawl
discovered garment and robe
pure white
shield from world's bitter foe
With apron, sash and flowing veil
He covers and crowns her head
with power, glory and light
Christ, the anointed
bearing marks
direction and pathway straight
Beckons to follow Him
back to Father in Heaven's heart and home
Enveloped within His shining place
and His tender love's embrace
Janice Harten
3 Mar 2024
