-- The Other Side of Silence --

by John Herlihy

What do we find on the other side of silence,

But the muffled cries of suffering in the world.

If our senses were sharp enough to understand,

The pain of it would destroy whatever achieved.

Perhaps we should be glad not to be so sensitive,

Work in any small way to achieve what we can.

To help others in whatever way may be possible,

To achieve the harmony and balance we all need.

Nothing should hurt us more than the misfortune,

That misfortunes of others should touch us in kind.

Care for the happiness of others as second nature,

The unexpected benefit lies in the nearness it brings.

We would have to feel with each what we suffer,

Without any feeling, we could never claim to know.

This side of silence always absolute without sound,

The other side of silence expressive as profound.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Sunday 5 May 2024