The Flickering Light

How burns the fire of life whose fuel and air are resentment and hate? The flames of those elements burn white-hot yet they warm not. Fully stoked their hearths burn, char, and ruin. They leave scarred all who do not seek out safety. They are a kiln for firing the clays of caustic enmity. The bitter flames of malice consume our mortal pottery inside-out. A fine, lifeless residue of destruction their only remnant; the ash from which is swiftly and silently swept into oblivion. II Better shared a brief caring moment, some small affection or comfort given, and these with a smile, embrace, or tear of common perception. Though perhaps faint flickering lights, these moments and insights, with unbroken purpose, support and sustain our human condition. While burning themselves out from all effort, these elements defend, strengthen, and guide us through darkness. Let me be sustained by the flame from the flickering light of love and kindness. May I become the kindling of decency, my actions a hearth of grace, my spirit glowing embers of light for all next generations. The Flickering Light 7-14