O lady they write about roses in song, in poetry, music and art <br /> But there's one fragrant rose that they know not about <br /> The rose who is queen of my heart <br /> Innocent and untouched you were chosen by God <br /> To enclose in your womb his own son <br /> For from all Adam's daughters no other was found that could give him <br /> pure love but this one <br /> Though a sister and mother to many through love <br /> No creature but him came from you <br /> For purity it was the dress that you wore, virginity your own virtue <br /> <br /> In these times when e'er priests have despised this great wealth <br /> As they seek once again poisoned fruit <br /> We will hold up your beauty for all eyes to see <br /> Chaste love in our hearts will take root <br /> <br /> So mother, cultivate all your virtues in us <br /> For your children have known bitter blows <br /> Make us blossom and grow in earth's garden for God <br /> And for you, our sweet mystical rose.<br /><br />Frances Anne Doogan<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/ave-maria-rosa-mystica/
