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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: CHECKING IN OR OUT (hotel/motel on vacation) (08/27/15)
Ancient rounded pillars weathered by advancing years
Supported chiselled blocks of stone that rose in copious tiers.
The antiquated building from generations past
Looked reliably established with a firmness that would last.
Encouraged then, I stepped inside but found the confines small,
I watched the assembled residents marshalled within the hall.
In careful precise order, in a rigid harmony,
They moved as one, united, each face set purposefully.
Intrigued then, I began to ask if each might recommend
A check in to this large hotel, a period here to spend.
Surely within these ancient walls that’ve stood the test of time
I’d find contentment, liberty, to rest my burdened mind?
The brief mention of liberty brought many a puzzled frown
‘We don’t follow that line of thought; our laws are all laid down.’
We’ve found here safe security that protects us from all fear,
Yes do check in, you’ll surely be out of harm’s way when here.’
But as I read the name plaques on those ancient heavy doors:
‘Legality’, ‘Mandatory’, ‘Principle’, ‘Legal Clause’
My burdened heart grew heavier, I felt my guilt, my sin,
So I left Hotel Traditionale, and I did not check in.


A scenic tree-lined sweeping drive, with planted beds of flowers
Drew my attention – surely here, I’d spend delightful hours.
Great sparkling fountains rose and fell, in perfect rhythmic time
To the sweetest notes of music that soothed my restless mind.
My searching eyes surveyed each scene till I was made aware
That this material ‘heaven’ was beauty beyond compare.
A multitude of others had discovered this place of bliss,
It was quite overcrowded, but I did not mind this.
I made my way to check in, I could hardly wait to be
A part of all the laughter, fun, that quickly called to me.
So I joined on to a long long queue that shoved and pushed in haste,
Where arguments erupted; a warning, a foretaste
That an air of discontentment in this place of beauty fair
Was never very far away beneath fun’s flimsy layer.
My burdened heart grew heavier; I felt my guilt, my sin,
So I left Hotel Extravagance and I did not check in.


Downcast, continuing on my way on well-worn well-trod road,
I scarcely lifted up my eyes, my heart weighed down and bowed.
I prayed for help, I raised my head, my eyes searching and sore
Beheld a House, so beautiful, I’d never seen before.
I stepped into the verdant grounds, well watered, fresh and green,
Abundant rich simplicity, peaceful, joyful serene.
I felt unworthy to be where such holy beauty lay
But I had to explore further, I could not keep away.
I asked at check-in, was there room, to stay here for a time,
Could this poor weary traveller rest, for some days here recline.
Oh no, came back the quick reply, the King who owns this place
Is the holy King of Glory and Majesty. His Grace
Says you are very welcome but the stay’s not temporary,
If you would once enter His walls, your stay’s eternally .
I’ll show you round, the check-in said, and you must then decide
If you will sign for ever and in this place abide.
We visited each wondrous room, the name plaque on each door
Called to my burdened heart come in, delay not any more.
Repentance and Forgiveness, Mercy and Calvary
Were the first rooms I visited. I gladly bowed my knee.
My joyful heart knew liberty as I then entered in
To the Residence of Grace and Peace, the Kingdom of the King.
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This article has been read 866 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Deborah Engle 
09/04/15
I like the concept here. My reservation is made, and I look forward to the day that I can check in for eternity.

Thanks for this uplifting reminder of what lays ahead for those who chose to follow the Lord.
Judy Sauer 
09/04/15
Beautifully written poem. I enjoyed the three hotel choices and you saved the best for last. Job well done.
Noel Mitaxa 
09/04/15
Skilfully sweeping descriptions throughout this challenging and contemplative piece. Beautifully done.
Noel Mitaxa 
09/04/15
Skilfully sweeping descriptions throughout this challenging and contemplative piece. Beautifully done.
Verna Cole Mitchell 
09/04/15
Simply beautiful poetry for word craft and meaning.
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
09/05/15
This is really beautiful. I can totally relate of the search to find the right place, to fit in. All we need to do is just ask Jesus in. Although poetry isn't my strong suit, I did stumble on a line or two. I'm not sure if the meter needs to be tweaked a tiny bit or if my tongue just gets tangled easily. Even so, I still think it is a brilliant piece. I love your take on the topic and have no doubt the Holy Spirit was present when you wrote this divine piece.
Ellen Carr 
09/09/15
This is a lovely take on the topic, written creatively and beautifully.
C D Swanson 
09/09/15
Beautiful!
God bless~
Rachel Rudd
09/10/15
Wow, this is a beautifully written poem! I liked the use of repetition In the first and second stanzas. I also liked your use, at times, of very short descriptions that made them more poignant.
Noel Mitaxa 
09/10/15
Congrats on your well-deserved EC.
Ellen Carr 
09/11/15
Congratulations, Margaret. Another win for your lovely poetry, and a deserved one.
Sharon Eastman
09/13/15
You've done it again. An eloquant, rhythmic and provoking poem, Margaret. I like to write poetry and I'm learning so much from you.
Beth LaBuff 
09/17/15
I love your metaphor, "Repentance and Forgiveness, Mercy and Calvary -- Were the first rooms I visited." Beautiful, outstanding work (as usual) Margaret. Many congrats on your Editor's Choice award.
Michael Edwards 
10/22/15
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