Simeon

Gone is the upturned prayerful face,
Cast in the glow of wonderous grace,
The royal colors are faded dim,
While no one bends to see.

Gone too, the Elders and High Priests,
Towering columns vault not above,
No sacred family kneels amazed,
While blessing hands hover o’erhead.

The Song of Praise is hushed and stilled,
Worn quiet with the rasp of time.
The brushstrokes once so fine and pure,
Are blurred and smudged unclear.

Dulled eyes now barely see the Child,
The head is gray and bare,
The mouth hangs open, no words to speak,
While hands are clasped in reverent prayer.

What once youth viewed from afar,
Is now held close to a worn-out heart.
What wrought the change we see so clear,
In the man with the Babe held so dear?

Simeon’s art speaks who want to hear,
Of truth that has become so clear,
Time beat upon a grey old head,
While Christ came near and touched a soul.

very beautiful -

why not write your 'own' since you are such a sensitive soul???

I'm not sure I know what you mean.

I have been hoping you would clarify your comment. Please be assured everything I write is my 'own' and nothing is copied or plagiarized. I became interested in Simeon after reading Henri Nouwan's book "The Return of the Prodigal Son" which is based on a Rembrandt painting of the same name.

While researching Rembrandt's life and works I was struck by the contrast between “Presentation of Jesus in the Temple” completed in 1631 and his “Simeon with Jesus” competed in 1669. The first painting was completed when Rembrandt was in his mid-twenties and at the top of his career and creative ability. The later was probably his last painting and completed when he was old, destitute, alone and nearly blind. I read of his life, some of the evil things he did to others, the death of his wife and loss of two children, his squandering of fame and fortune and found the two paintings compelling.

I took of both paintings side by side and tried to express in a few words what rested between the two. If it was well or poorly done it was all my own.

You know, I think I am beginning to understand what you mean....it only took two years! I'm not sure I am bright enough to do it yet, but I do finally "get it". Thank you for your insight and honesty!