Heeding The Call, a Poem by Jimmy Lisotto

Embarking on a journey away from stress,

Traveling with haste along the winding streets.

Though time slows to a crawl, onward I press,

To a sorely needed weekend retreat. 

A monastery is where I attend,

The tight knot within is painfully furled.

Spiritual fractures need time to mend 

In a locale away from the cares of the world.

Devoid of the hustle and bustle of life, 

Peace and serenity permeating all. 

Complete relaxation, not one hint of strife 

In this blessed place of those heeding the call. 

Away from it all, nothing to intrude, 

Nary a sound breaks the stillness of air.

No temporal concerns mar this solitude, 

A serene setting for peaceful prayer. 

A cloistered rhythm at the monastery, 

Earthly distractions left behind at the door. 

A simple existence, an austere tapestry 

Makes it easier to commune with the Lord, 

Gathering as one is a blessed affair, 

Coming together with gladness to learn. 

The holy brothers are gracious to share 

Their wisdom and knowledge of how to discern.

Alas, the moment has come to depart, 

Many valuable lessons were learned.  

Though leaving is hard, I know in my heart 

There will be a call for me to return. 

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Jimmy Lisotto is a writer and poet living in New Hampshire. He has previously been published in Agape Review and Faith On Every Corner. He believes that poetry is a medium that brings all people together, from all walks of life. His preferred genres are spiritual, religious, and love, feeling a deep connection to anything that touches or moves the heart or the soul. He can be found online on Facebook, X, and Instagram. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, fishing (both freshwater and saltwater), writing, and continually trying to train his dog to stay away from his slippers.