Laying My Cards on the Table

by John Herlihy

I do not always lay all of my cards upon the table.

After all, tables can often become somewhat unstable.

Still, no need to hold back if my cards perfectly clear.

I usually lay them down one by one without any fear.

But it does happen that a sudden occasion may arise.

An uncomfortable situation that I particularly despise.

A conflict of interest that has turned into a dispute.

The moment has arrived when I need be ultra astute.

All my cards on the table would result in a disaster,

Making the specter of impropriety arise even faster.

Leading to a situation that some may misunderstand,

I may even put myself at risk leading to reprimand.

Frankly, I always keep my cards close to the chest,

In my dealings with others, discretion serves best.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Wednesday 26 November 2025