What is absolution?
When we have crossed the lines of our own consciences,
and beyond those of our collective ethic,
what repentance is to be had?
Is life without external judgement?
Does it then continue unhindered by the muddy waters of absolute condemnation,
safe in the weakness of memory?
Is penance real? Does it allow us to wash our hands clean of blood and sorrow?
Who possesses the power of supreme forgiveness?
The availability of God for solace is too easy.
To sit and sob in the cradling arms of the Superior is too simple.
But it lets us live with ourselves,
because we have to accept the iniquities of our everyday lives,
the failings of our choices,
the contradictions of our actions.
Can we give in to Your powers, because we need to hear
That it will all be alright if your heart wills it,
that you can be embraced by all even after the most grievous of transgressions?

Or is forgiveness the commiseration of those who commingle in those confused waters,
and can see the reflections of others in them?