Poem to Bernadette, to follow Mary's road of trust

To help me put my hesitant steps in your steps,
I ask you, Bernadette, to lend me your clogs.

They are for me the symbol of common sense, of the spirit of poverty, and of simplicity.
Sadly, you know that I lack all that: I ask you, Bernadette, to lend me your clogs.

You were on your way to gather wood, which makes the flame and unites men by bringing them comfort. So that I too may bring warmth to those who seek a smile, a word, silence or support, please Bernadette, lend me your clogs.

And if they are too small for me, let them teach me humility. I will walk conscious of my limitations, taking only small steps, falling and rising. Please Bernadette, lend me your clogs!

To follow Mary's road of trust, to discover the Living Water offered to the thirsty, to go to the meal where Jesus invites us, to share his word and his bread, please Bernadette, lend me your clogs.

To go to the Father who waits for me and who loves me; to enter the feast at the end of the road, after having walked, carrying my joys and my sorrows, while asking you to give me your hand, please Bernadette, lend me your clogs.

Poem written by Marie Louise Pierson, during a pilgrimage to Lourdes, following the death of her niece Marie Bernadette, and distributed thereafter to the pilgrims of Lourdes.