By Bryan Hayes
Now, I must today
Express gratitude
With no latitude for
Inhibition of “them” or “they”
Of pleasure or pain as both
Have brought me to this space
This blessed place
Of unconditional
Acceptance
Peace
Love
Understanding
Life, it is not a dream
Much more real than could
Ever seem as truth lies in the
Basket of gray a mixture of black
And of white to fade both good and bad
Into mere perception of one’s reception
Facing their own introjection through a
Narrow field of vision based upon
Not all that it is but rather all
That has been presented
With roles to play
Masks to wear
Faces toHide
Thank you, they were the best of times…..
Back when
Thank you, they were the worst of times…..
Back then
I have learned from professors
The value of critical thinking, deductive reasoning
Doing research to support my point
I have learned from death
The value of life, of living, of giving, and receiving
Not taking anyone, or anything
For granted
I have learned from hurt
The value of healing not only the wound but the pain
Not continuing to inflict
Or infect others with suffering
I have learned from sadness
Joy, for the sake of joy
Happiness, for the sake of happiness
I have learned that….
Frustration is the castration of peace and tranquility
Peace
Is the birthof tranquility
Anger is the antithesis of love and compassion
Love
Is the epitome
of compassion
Thank you, for the pleasure and joy…….
Back when
Thank you, for the sorrows and sadness…..
Back then
Thank you,
then and now
for
The best Of times
~ Bryan Hayes
7/5/2021