Though volatile, he was earnest, faithful.
It must have stung that night at Passover
when Jesus told him he'd deny
his dearest friend and teacher
before the morning light,
before the cock calls thrice.
It must have hurt him even deeper
that instant the rooster crowed
when he'd just denied
that he was Jesus' friend
the third time.
I'm glad it wasn't me,
for I'd have likely done the same.