Poets United asked for poems regarding “this time of year,” the regrets, the emotions that run high. In my case, so many bridges have been burned at the holidays… tempers in my circles flare, often to the detriment of even long-term relationships. And so I offer this poem. Peace, Amy
Repairers of the Breach
When all is said and done and
undone, then soddered together once more,
the saddest truth is this:
You’ll never go back in time.
No mulligans on misspeaking,
no second tries on bitter partings.
Bridges burned are seldom rebuilt,
the breach often irreparable, final…
or so it seems.
So strive to remember that God gave us
two ears and one mouth – a ratio
reflecting God’s common sense.
Listen for the resonant truth with respect;
forgive other folks’ harmless blather,
unless it is prejudiced and hateful.
(Sometimes you must walk away from hatred,
homophobia, racism and such, for reasons
of conscience in the face of recalcitrant bigots.)
Try to leave the bridge burning to others.
If the bridge be burnt, let it be for the right reason.
Live in love, as repairers of the breach.
© 2011 Amy Barlow Liberatore/Sharp Little Pencil
Posted at my poetic oasis, Poets United. Proud to be a member!
Sharp Little Pencil 