Emptiness—
it echoes within me.
Condemning thoughts
bounce in the void.

I want to break out,
to feel the wind
lift my wings.

Am I clipped
by the pain
of the dark banner
of experience?

Where is my refuge?
Who will hear
my voice?
My cry?

I know—
suffering shapes character,
but how much
can one soul endure?

I take refuge
in the Lord,
Creator
of the heavens
and the earth.

Though I walk
through the valley
of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil—

for You are with me.

No weapon
formed against me
will prosper.

I will trust in You
with all my heart
and lean not
on my own understanding.

In all my ways
I will acknowledge You,
and You
will make my paths straight.

Though darkness
surrounds me—
You are my light.

Your word
is a lamp to my feet,
a light to my path.

Even when I am faithless—
You are faithful.

My soul thirsts
for You, O God.
You are
my hope
in times of trouble.