I had such zest and energy

a new skin of sweet piquancy.

‘Don’t take the pith!’ I pled and cried

‘Don’t pare me from ekklesia’s side.’

Uncommon people pulped me down

Sapped me – but, was then I found

out flowed a fresh vitality.

The juice is worth the press and squeeze.

Discarded flesh all crushed and dripped

had composted unwanted pips.

These new shoots – they may be minute

but promise, from the hulls, new fruit.