you arrive screaming
what a terrifying thing
infinite potential for harm and kindness
more screaming, more and more, at all hours
like you know about this place already
I, on behalf of the shattered
then partially and insufficiently reconstructed
planet, apologize
what suffering will
you cause, alleviate, survive
and who will you blame?
completely dependent
requiring the most meticulous
blend
love and competence
balance
nurturing and nudging
every broken person
was one of you once too
I remember that every day
I chose them
for my laboring heart
and perhaps excessively conscientious mind
(someone has to choose them and you appeal to far more)
but for you
I offer deepest hope
meager resources
a desperate longing to protect
and bandaging when needed
I know
nothing could spare you
from the machinations of this world
still we share it
awe and fear
complexity and wonder
only fools see cute simplicity
you make everyone a fool
we are court jesters
desperate for your smile
however brief