Filthy Rags
by Tricia Pattinson

Another woman stoned to death
Men urged on by a clergyman

Another woman sacrificed
Zealots lead by filthy rags

What's this love of God they speak?
What's this God that plays murderous games

It's not the Sweet Divine
Who teaches by example patience; long suffering

I weep as kindness must
For hate has taken charge

I weep for the suffering
Delivered in the name of good

How long before everyone's suffering expands
Violence and hate from nothing good come

How long before the madness spreads
And all the world in flames?

Another woman murdered
Another child destroyed

We are all capable of cruel
But to do it in the name of God has the stench of foul precedence