Let this single face be the same
to those who know me well, and
see what I really am, as it is to
strangers to whom politeness
is given as fine natural curtesy.

Let my daily ways with those I love
be filled with core respect and not
with neglect that can come easily
with careless familiarity and habits
that have worn a pattern in my life.

Let me not ignore the simple words
of affection and care that can so
easily fall down the rushing drain of life
and not be given to build this house
of love in which we all can share.

Let me remember the truth of existence:
that all our time in the garden we call
home is fragile like a flower that seeks
the sun but withers, so make all that
can be done dwell in kindness and grace.

25/8/2024