-- A Soft Touch --

John Herlihy

I ­­am what could rightly be called a soft touch;

Even if much may escape me, I know that much.

At the sight of an elderly person, I extend a hand;

Letting people fend by themselves but a reprimand.

When those in need ask for money, I never say no;

God knows their need, how they spend it I never know.

As a writer, people often need my help, I am exploited;

If my helpful service makes them happy, I feel anointed.

The knowing smiles of my students only gives them away;

They know full well I will never their just grade betray.

I am especially vulnerable to children’s smiles and tears;

I feel their child-like sorrows and suffer their little fears.

If I be a soft touch, I wouldn’t have it any other way;

Freely giving gives freely in return, never having to pay.

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(c) John Herlihy 10 March 2020