-- Light Years --

John Herlihy

Why do we fret so much about time?

Earth years measured by fossils in lime.

Light years only leave behind the sun,

As they move imperiously on the run.

The earth an infant in a universe vast;

We need to focus on things that last.

Our minds think they must take charge;

As our hearts roam the universe at large.

Give us a thousand lifetimes all to absorb,

Everything to learn on this magnificent orb.

Knowledge accrued through trial and error;

We see wise enlightenment, not just terror.

Earth but one of a million planets habitable.

Why dream of a heaven and hell unpalatable?

We need to strive and to continue growing;

Otherwise run the risk that we stop knowing.

We still have so many light years to go,

More truths to learn, more wisdom to know.

in knowing more, we may question much less.

Why question truth if it impedes our progress?

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(c) John Herlihy 7 June 2020