Naturam expellas Furca

When I the Cross began to wear,
Then, as that emblem well beseemed,
I guarded all my thoughts with care,
As pilgrims use; for then I deemed
That I could fix them so upon God's favour,
That ne'er a foot's-breadth from His service they should waver.
But now a wilful mood they've shown
And rove untrammelled as before.
This sorrow is not mine alone;
It troubles many people more.

In prosperous case I still might be
Save that my thoughts so wildly stray.
They will not lend their aid to me
To serve my God in such a way
As needs I must, to win my soul salvation.
They hark back ever to their ancient occupation,
And fain would have me revel still,
Even as I did in days of yore.
Mother and Maid, avert that ill,
For I can govern them no more!

Yet thoughts I will not so command
As not to let them now and then
Fare forth (for all the world's their land)
Homewards, and so come back again.
When they have borne our friends our love's profession,
Let them return and help atone for such transgression!
May Heaven forgive them all the wrong
That they have done me hitherto!
I fear their folly is so strong
They will assail me oft anew.