Glass Beads

by Beulah Field — a poem card from Justes Mots

A speaker transitions from suffering mendicancy (rejected by pilgrims, given thorns) to peaceful observance outside a temple, watching others pursue false spiritual goods while awaiting enlightenment. The poem suggests redemption through acceptance and inner illumination rather than external validation. It serves those processing spiritual disillusionment and finding peace within.

I was a mendicant, begging my bread
From pilgrims shouting the dawn,
And they gave me thorns that tore my robe,
And took my prayers in pawn.

But now, outside the Temple door,
I stand and let them pass;
While I watch for the sun on the Eastern hills,…

Themes: sympathy · grief · encouragement · reflection