David Taylor - Strength

Strength

Resolute, firm, unmoving,
but not a brittleness
of dry bones with no
marrow at their core.
Loving. embracing, forgiving,
but not a mushy
sentimental wishday flaw.
Supporting, holding, guarding,
but not a battlement
defending what is yours.
Massive, imposing, mountainous,
but not with any anger
volcanoed in its core.
Purity, faith, piety,
but not with any self righteousness
which turns them into
that which is deplored.

Strength, a very subtle force,
hidden not on display.
Often only found
when events, they cause dismay.
Strength in its truest sense
is much needed every day,
to stand and not be bent
by whatever comes our way.
To lean and sway and not snap,
but as elastic, snap right back
and keep on going day by day.
Never to be convinced
to change our stance or preference,
based on fear or even on indifference.
Strength, I wish for you and me
to stand and fight for all humanity,
today, tomorrow and all our lives
in all we do and in what we say,
today, tomorrow, come what may.

David Taylor

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/strength-14/