came a thief
who took the mountain
took away the peaceful stream
gave a silver plated nickel –
to the beggar
for his dreams

took the ways for which we wandered
left us nothing for the fight
took the heart (was once so tender)
pulled it (pleading)
from the light

was a thief
who took of pardons –
spoke in tongues (we strained to hear)
promised wine (a crystal fountain)
somewhere far
(not far from here)

spoke of highways
thru the heavens –
told of trust beyond the veil
sold us courage from a bottle
jaded cup (a wishing well)

from those moments
came another –
one more chance to turn away
another dollar for our wishes
stars we loved –
at once betrayed

for the hope of more
than vision –
righteous want
for more than will
took the last of mortal conscience
lifetimes passed us –
standing still

came a thief
in prophet’s clothing –
golden robes (of fated sun)
took of breath –
the soul’s impression
left behind the empty one