The Door was opened at the evening hour,
The Door of Prayer to all stood open wide.
And those who wished came softly to the chancel
To say a prayer that peace would e'er abide.

By twos, and singly, and in family groups they knelt,
Sending petitions and their heartfelt thanks above.
The older folk who near that Door have dwelt,
The youth and maiden with their hopes so high.

And underneath and over all the organ music
Breathing out hymns of old with faith in every line:
"Oh, God, our help in ages past";
Love excelled, divine.

The noises of the rushing world outside the Door
Seemed dim and shut apart; so still it was.
And as the lights glowed strong about the eastern window
Peace glowed within the heart which hoped once more.

I can only see with blinded eyes
or the green of grass and blue of sky
Cloud the vision of my mind's eye
I can only feel with deadened nerves
The sensation of my flesh on yours
Blocks the feathery touch of your mind
I will step forth and taste the sky
If only I sever my tongue
I will listen to the color red
For my ears have been deafened,
My mantra for so many years:
I would give up everything
So I could journey far
I will give you anything
If you destroy my senses
This fence around my mind,
I will spread my soul's wings
And fly into the ground