Depleted Souls

When does nutrition account
For the calories being consumed
By these thoughtful eaters,
Pursuing the earthly balance
Between health and obesity? 
When do the lightning storms
Force us to abandon those electrical parades
Down saintly and ubiquitous Main Street? 

The future is a frosty lake
Mixed with the Mediterranean sunshine –
Stars wade and shimmer by the glorious beaches on the coast,
While the hungry fishermen rip holes in the icy lake,
Plumbing the chilly depths
For food and nourishment. 
The future holds kindness and warmth
For the small percentage
Blessed by those lines of proximity and age,
While other, less fortunate souls
Become denied of their much-sought-after yearnings,
Facing a tomorrow of depleted identities
And disproportionate values and restraints. 

Holding true to form,
Vanquished souls continue to forge ahead,
Knowing that the failures and indecisions of the past
Have led to a darkened and alternate path – 
Hopefully, to arrive at a renewed sense of faith and forgiveness
Once the dagger is removed
From their rapidly beating chests,
A life so hospitably endowed with heartfelt perception
And immense grace.