Through the Gate
Virginia Salter

through the gate is a wilderness
unmet and untamed,
by the knowledge I am holding,
by the promise I’ve yet to claim.

should I venture forward
seek its potential cream
or might it mar and maim
what I’ve left of my dream

though the gate be made of iron
attached to wood, splintered, worn,
covered with verdant ivy,
roses clad with thorns

should I step on through it
should I make my valiant move
for what am I looking
what do I seek to prove

I look around for my answer
and deep within my heart
weigh the choice of remaining
with the loss, should I depart

might I grow in stature,
might my mission be conceived,
must I stay one part of passion
should I decide I will not leave

is it my voice that’s calling
or the One I seek to believe,
I shall put one foot forward
leave to Him what I receive

the sound of my footsteps
seem in rhythm to His will
they echo of His promise
to remain with me still

more boldly do I go now
into this wilderness
my heart is truly gladdened
for I sense His sweet caress

© August 17.  2000