I.

An idea is generated,

Contemplated, and uttered.

In formal settings, in corner cafes

During drinks of wine or on flat lattes

With friends or with unknown others.

II.

The listeners sit up, thoughts gathered,

They crane their necks, open their eyes,

Do they seek agreement, to be surprised?

Are they feathered birds, low in the skies,

Ready to be humbled or be recognized?

III

What if their perspective is shattered?

Like the thin glass it was made from

Sent to the floor, its shards have scattered.

(And icons have historically been battered.)

Respect in the listening is what matters.

IV.

One man to another says,

Let’s be friends, but forget your religion.

I want A, B, and C and on one condition,

He stays here or there, but in submission.

We’ll talk of this and this and this and this.

Here is the line. On the table. My decision.

V.

“I disagree” is cutting.

Cuts will always bleed and burn.

Cuts could/would/should be cleaned for sure.

My aim is not to cut.

My aim is to be loving and loyal.

To sow seeds and water them too in

The beautiful universe’s present soil.