We seem to know others better
but often are self-alienated
we've ceased to be ourselves
and live a life that's desperate and bewildered

I can't comment
   I know so very little
  my silence I'll keep
  I'll pass over to other people

let them debate, argue
dispute or mock--it will not stop:
each will clamour to be right
words will drop and drop!

The seemingly easy
might hide difficulty
that which is difficult
on practice could be accomplished easily

If you should praise yourself
keep within--people don't need to know-
this self-recognition is healthy
as with life you silently flow

West:  Go forth!

Zen:   Be still

Be glad you're criticised
it means you've been recognised

It's hard for me
the world to see
eye to eye-
we are each
a separate entity -
it does ******
tempt and even lie
but I can't compromise
nor be bought
like merchandise -

its mind is made up
loyalty and compliance
it seeks-- it's hegemony
but I seek democracy
its ideology I can't buy-

how brief and transitory
is life -- I'll not waste away
in being part of anyone
nor any cause
I consider not worthwhile -

in the depth of night
under the stars I walk
in rumination and aloneness
such consolation I feel
and I know I'm totally
free and sublimely alive.