Sister Carmen Bernos de Gasztold was a Benedictine nun and gifted writer who lived from 1919 to 1995. She wrote two books giving voice to God’s animals titled “Prayers from the Ark” and “The Creatures’ Choir.” This summer I am sharing once again more of her pensive poems.

Oh! What a worrit!

All these chicks

to cherish and protect–

can’t shut an eye

even for a moment!

That one strays too far,

those two big ones quarrel,

and this tiny one isn’t strong.

I should like to keep them always under my wings,

but they must learn how to live.

That dreadful cat!

Never trust a cat!

And all these feet

tramping round my brood.

Beware! Hen pecks!

I’m going to lose my temper!

Lord,

my heart is so choked

with loving care,

how can I say

Amen?