a villanelle

by Lucia Haase

To exercise the right for perfect peace,
there’s longing of the spirit crying out.
In Falun Gong, believers find increase

that deeply speaks, not merely just caprice.
Freedom of choice is what it’s all about
to exercise the right for perfect peace.

Some find in meditation warm embrace
much louder than the non-believers shout.
In Falun Gong, believers find increase.

The vessel speaks. Believers will not cease.
Philosophy and truth lends them no doubt
to exercise the right for perfect peace.

There’s genocide abounding midst heart beats
that lurks amongst those feeling spirit sprout.
In Falun Gong, believers find increase.

Respect of one’s belief provides release,
concordance resonating with each route
to exercise the right for perfect peace.
In Falun Gong, believers find increase.

* * *

 

Recognized as an Honorable Mention in FoFG’s 2022 Poetry Contest