The Idea of Perfection

by John Herlihy

The idea of perfection has served as well,

Casting us mercifully under its magic spell.

There beyond the horizon of heaven and earth,

Perfection to inspire since the time of our birth.

Perfection found in every leaf and blade of grass,

The sun's reflection shining in a shield of brass.

Our imperfections only tell us half the story,

Giving ample evidence of life's potential glory.

The beauty of perfection inscribed in butterfly wings,

The night's silence holds peacefulness as the heart sings.

What use imperfection without its counterpart in tow,

Following us as a shadow in everything we know.

The perfection of time that never misses a beat,

The seasons’ perfection, winter chill, summer heat.

Give me imperfections and I will gladly utter a sigh,

As I sing of perfections lying under and over the sky.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Friday 11 June 2025