Tribulation

Tribulation

Coal,
compressed,
tested, stressed,
yields its concealed
beauty under protest.
A diamond heart, at last unsealed,
its softness transformed, its true strength revealed.
Life's adversity challenges us for control.
It leaves helpless feelings, no key to wield
against self-sold shackles well sealed
until deep in our chest
we find a shield
for our quest:
our blest
soul.

Notes

An entry for Round Twenty-One "Invalid Item" 

Prompt: Must use the words SOLD, LEAVES, KEY

Form: Diatelle
The Diatelle is a fun, syllable counting form like the etheree with a twist. The syllable structure of the diatelle is as follows: 1/2/3/4/6/8/10/12/10/8/6/4/3/2/1, but unlike an ethere, has a set rhyme pattern of abbcbccaccbcbba. This poetry form may be written on any subject matter and looks best center aligned in a diamond shape.

Thank you for taking time to read my words. I would appreciate it if you took a moment and left a comment. Your reaction, impressions, criticisms, - yes, even praise are all equally welcome.

Ken