Our Greatest Strength

by John Herlihy

We find our greatest strength,

When we have the greatest need.

We go to any imaginable length,

To perform any necessary deed.

We find what strength we have,

Without knowing that it is there.

We soothe all worry with a salve,

From the courage found in prayer.

The tears never to be held back,

Finding blessing in whatever we lack.

The will to bear sorrows and joys,

Restraint that never made any noise.

A turtle never boasted to be strong,

On a journey never claimed to be long.

The tree stands firm thru wind and rain,

With arms extended, asks for no acclaim.

A river that carves thru granite stone,

With patience honed by waiting alone.

A humble reed bows to the storm,

To stand once again, true to its form.

Birds migrating south thru endless sky,

Follow native instinct without asking why.

The seed whose bud breaks earth apart,

With nothing more than its gallant heart.

Strength to make no loud announcements,

Thru small gestures, no pronouncements.

Perceived weakness as witnessed strength,

In solving problems will go to any length.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Friday 19 December 2025