Worlds Apart

The day was cold, and damp, and dank,
A perfect day to fit my mood,
For as I walked along the hall,
My son lay dying on a bed,
My heart lay bleeding on the floor.
An intern spilt her drink and cursed.
“Please stop, you’ll fix your stain,” I cried,
“My son will not survive this day.”

My son laid dead, all still, all cold.
My world laid shattered on the floor.
“Please stop!” I cried, “And help me please!”
“Please, help me fix my broken world!”
The cars drove on, a cabbie cursed,
Then someone slowed: “I have good news:
I am engaged. Please, smile for us;
Come laugh with me and spread our joy!”

We live our lives in worlds apart.
And few can bridge the gap between:
To cry a tear when joy abounds,
Or laugh while mourning loss of life.
But those who cross to aide a friend in need,
have true compassion shown.
While mourners who can cross the gulf,
Will find that life still holds some joy.

©James Garner 7 Nov 2006