De Dignitate Hominis

The dignity of man is mixed in equal part
     With a blackness of the heart not found
In any other predator. Still, brilliant
     Symphonies are played, everyday acts
Of kindness are performed, and people
     Everywhere in every tongue proclaim aloud
Their fondness for each other. Forever at
     The mercy of the moment, we must rely upon
Our culture, which provides whatever guides
     We have to live by. Wrapped up in each
Other's lives, we are enthralled by our
     Cohabitation. It multiplies our powers
By reciprocal degrees, resulting in both
     Greater harm and greater good for all.


©2016 Michael Fraley




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