Potential Musings Of James Madison
(As he wrote the Constitution)

A poem exploring the reasoning and hope of the forefathers of the United States of America
By Father John R. Green

Copyright © by John R. Green
Shown with his blessing

This poem has been published in the Antholoy, Colors of Thoughts,
of the National Library of Poetry
(Return To "An Episcopal Poet")

Religious am I, of the Episcopal tradition;
The image of God residing in me.
Mortals lighted by Christ, neath the stature of angels
May perform works of goodness and loving kindness.

Yet, I know, as a Christian knows,
Of the evil which corrupts our human nature.
Tempted, we sin - darkness grim and prevailing;
And weep afar from the celestial light.

In the realms of the secular human-kind may excel
When freedom sustains their actions.
While again, they may yield to the base and the vile,
Which mocks the glory of democracy.

As I pen this constitutional provision,
My faith in God and liberty ride high;
That the noble in us will quench
The choosing of a hellish finality.

'Tis wiser to have a threatened liberty
Than a despotic rule in a nation.
God's redemption beckons all beings;
And is plenteous for society's needs.

Denoucing religious tyranny known in other lands,
A more deadly peril than despotic political governance
The nation promotes not religion by investure nor decree,
While assuring the right of all to follow
  ...their spiritual persuasion.

Cherished freedom must be honored
To all speakers and printers of words;
Whether agreement is affirmed or denied,
Whether exalted or scorned.

Thuswise, our treasured democracy will triumph
Over every rival or foe;
The truth of God shall make us free;
And we will live the abundant life,
  ...with the fruits of liberty.