One from the 1992 Collection

CHALLENGE

We can all use a kind word these days,
especially in the midst of madness.
So many afflictions from which to choose,
and the deadliest are malice and fear;
So, shall we whisper love in each other's ear?

We all need healing now and again,
with germs and bullets flying about our heads.
So much loss, so much disgrace, and no time
taken to learn this truth from our misdeeds:
One soul will flourish while another bleeds.

What in us cares more for a dog or a dolphin
than for a human?
Does the competition confine our compassion?
It's the ego that makes us behave so badly;
makes us enslave, isolate, and slaughter gladly.

Do we see in the dog or the dolphin
the innocence we lack?
Do we resent each other and deny it after the fact?
Do we really think we can get away with hate?
Do you believe we'll come to love too late?

We can all use a kind word these days,
especially in the midst of madness.
So many afflictions from which to choose,
and the deadliest have yet to appear;
So, shall we whisper love in each other's ear?

I dare you : Whisper love in each other's ear.

4.13.92
for Jack