So much cruelty is at work in the world
right now, so many bad actors who
tear down others to build up themselves,
so many slavering sycophants grasping
for crumbs of power, eager to demonize
any and all others slated for persecution,
so many truly awful things going on
that even the smallest gesture of kindness,
soft smile, warm hug, friendly handshake,
causes me to weep in irrepressible gratitude.
