Forgiveness

Seems apt to post this again...upon the death of Margaret Thatcher

A curtain corner raised,
I witnessed Jews,
enlightened since their passage
through the Auschwitz ovens,
rescuing former camp guards
from the stinking pits
remorse had dug for them.

I bring it to your attention
you bombers, you famine makers,
you adjusters of populations.
These children you kill
might learn, by this light,
a love which, brought to bear,
could drive you screaming mad.

Child

If you, child, hurt,
I, compassion, bleed,
My arms enfold.

If you, child, hunger,
I, provider, feed,
My bread your gold.

If you, child, sicken,
I, physician, heed,
Your fever hold.

If you, child, die,
I, Death, intercede,
My cloak your fold.

Goodness Is a Tender Plant

Saw need and felt
The quick compassion.
Took two steps forward
Arms outstretched.
Blundered,
Was accused,
Stepped back,
And never ventured more
Into another's mess.