I was once hanging out with
an eclectic group
one of whom casually asked if
any of us believed in ghosts
before I could answer
another said
“Not ghosts, but angels”
bringing awkwardness
blank looks
all around

While I couldn’t see myself
I like to think I was more
contemplative
though it got me pondering
why
someone would staunchly
believe in one but not the other

Bit of a head-scratcher

Ghosts, angels to me
not synonymous
not even really equated though
that may just be
simply splitting theological
philosophical hairs

Resulting discussion
lightly, blithely skirted those
two nuanced concepts
stuck instead on trite
yes/no aspects
though doctrine and
true beliefs uniquely defy
such black/white generalities

More personally
Do I believe in ghosts?
Yes.
Do I believe in angels?
Yes.
Have I encountered either?
Both, I believe
All are ideas which put me firmly
in mainstream of
American thought and belief
though I part ways with many
in my belief that
ghost and angels
do their own things
untethered from rigid codes
of conduct and limits
more freelance
independent contractors
than timeclock-logging
line-employees

Theology I can live with
as I am equally sure both
ghosts and angels can

all see my P-O-V
and knowing they remain free
to unabashedly proselytize
I have never felt the need to put up
a ‘NO SOLICITORS’ sign


– Mark Lucker
© 2025
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B017LALIES