.
The tree of love its roots hath spread
Deep in my heart, and rears its head;
Rich are its fruits: they joy dispense;
Transport the heart, and ravish sense.
In love's sweet swoon to thee I cleave,
Bless'd source of love . . .
....
I said to God, “Let me love you.”
And he replied, “Which part?”
.
“All of you, all of you.” I said.
.
“Dear” God spoke, “You are as a mouse wanting to impregnate
a tiger who is not even in heat. It is a feat way
beyond your courage and strength.
You would run from me
if I removed my
mask.”
.
I said to God again,
.
“Beloved I need to love you – every aspect, every pore.”
.
And this time God said,
.
“There is a hideous blemish on my body,
though it is such an infinitesimal part of my Being-
could you kiss that if it were revealed?”
.
“I will try, Lord, I will try.”
.
And then God said,
“That blemish is all the hatred and
cruelty in this
world.”
.
~ Saint Thomas Aquinas
from Love Poems from God, by Daniel Ladinsky