The Last Judgement, artist unknown, 18th century, Alto Peru, oil on canvas, Phoenix Art Museum

To those who love me, I am their cruelest friend
How many adore and love me, and how many believe and hope in me!
Yet in turn I provide trifles in life, and misery in the end.

When the veil is lifted and my folly shown, happy shall they be
Who in life denied themselves and took up their Cross!
For on that day of destiny all shall stand, yet none shall plea.

All sin shall be turned to its final loss,
While all justice turned to its final reward.
Wise then are those who have rejected my dross!

Like Perseus who struck foul Medusa with sword,
They have saved their hearts from turning to stone.
For they have set their sight on the little pearl they scarce afford.

Thus these unknown few take their seats by Heaven’s throne,
While my wise ones are found unworthy, and into Hell are thrown.