THE COLLECTOR

 

Thou shalt pass the plate of brass

With felt to deaden the ring of coins

Or take the collection

In bag of leather or bowl of wood

Remembering to avert thine eyes

At the widows mite

And the rich man’s notes.

 

Thou shalt wear a smile

Of indifference

Even unto those who turn their heads

Or pass the parcel quickly to their neighbour

Or over their shoulders

Another trick

To avoid embarrassment.

 

Thou shalt pay no heed

But silently count each head

As requested by Father

To calculate

The Diocesan contribution.

 

(c) David Subaccchi.2004