Kindness

What do you find
When you are kind?
A sweet spilling of mercy

Is the world good?
Is the world bad?
When was the last time you looked at the sky?

Please slow down
It might hurt--
Light a candle
In the dark room of your pain

Please slow down
Feel yourself
Taste the soup
Smell the flowers
Look at your friend's face
Touch her hand
Touch your own,
If you're alone

Above all,
Please be kind to yourself
If you can't,
Please think about kindness
If you can't
Just say the word
Kindness