Death is but a step away,
but love is always in us.
10,000 illnesses threaten
our lives each day,
but love is our great protector.
Acts of empathy, compassion
are bulwarks against our strongest foes.
It goes without saying that love has many allies:  
an open heart, arms extended, a consciousness of kindness--
all are redoubtable measures to allay our fears and misery.
Many suffer, but to ameliorate their pain is
but one swift sweetness away. Alas,
we shall offer succor to those who feel no hope;  
we shall displace despair with an air of caring
to bring our bodies home. There is room
for all in this world that seems so bleak.
We seek only goodness to spread like a goddess
to all who hurt and hunger, to help our Earth's rebirth
and realize God's goal.

TOD HOWARD HAWKS