I could make excuses
Or claim I was possessed
But fact would find its way out
Of duplicity confessed

So I will speak those truths
Clandestine in my past
Although far from my first mistakes
I vow each one the last

I have worshiped money
My words have been profane
I have ignored the Sabbath
And caused my parents pain

I’ve smashed some helpless insects
Thought things much less than pure
I’ve pilfered things that were not mine
Because I wanted more

I’ve lied for no good reason
Desired someone’s spouse
Their car and boat and clothing
And coveted their house

My excuse has been I’m human
An average bipedal fool
The Lord made only ten mandates
I’ve fractured every rule

Yet God is ever merciful
So I strive every day
To keep all Ten Commandments
Past tense is past… I pray

© 2006 JVD

Jane Van Doe

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/past-tense-10/