A villanelle on the 7th Commandment.
I will not steal possessions or money
or gain in any dishonest way
but help my neighbour’s security.
I shall not live selfishly
or grow unethical when money sways.
I will not steal possessions or money.
I will trust in God above all things
and not scheme to get my neighbour’s pay
but help my neighbour’s security.
As hard as times might be,
and as much as I might want to betray,
I will not steal possessions or money.
Instead, I’ll pray God’s delivery
and abstain from foul play
but help my neighbour’s security.
Through my neighbour God provides for me
every minute of every day.
I will not steal possessions or money
but help my neighbour’s security.
The Lutheran Column 