The Tastes of Heaven

After Emily Dickinson

“’Tis beggars banquets best define”—
But I have prayed for riches;
“’Tis thirsting vitalizes wine”—
But I have washed myself in scum;
If tastes that heaven has prepared
Are savored ’Cause of trials we bear,
Then why do I beg for release?

“’Tis beggars banquets best define”—
May I take joy in poverty!
“’Tis thirsting vitalizes wine”—
So let me wait for feasts to dine;
I shall embrace the dancing flames
So deeper life is mine to claim,
And in the pain I’m finding peace…