-- The Value of Ignorance --

by John Herlihy

,

The value of ignorance provides us with an open door,

That leads down a pathway of knowledge and more.

Who would ever predict the miracle of the unknown,

That thrives in rich soil where mysteries are grown.

We live all our lives in the wealth of nature’s splendor,

Who could predict what dawn and dusk may render.

The brightness of day knows nothing of the night,

While the darkness of night tempered by moonlight.

The tree knows not, yet prays with uplifted arms,

Winds roam in ignorance, yet whisper sacred psalms.

What does the night do but forever conceal itself,

What does the day do but forever offer up itself.

Imagine being vulnerable and ignorant as a little bird,

Trembling in fear at the sound of a harsh wind heard.

To do the right thing when we know not what we do,

We didn’t know and still know not what others knew.

What better confession but to claim: ‘I do not know’,

The empty heart waiting to be filled, waiting to know.

In knowing our ignorance, heaven will nothing conceal.

The value of ignorance offers freely its secret to reveal.

- - - - - -

Copyright © John Herlihy

Sunday 17 December 2023