unexpected hope

There is much in her to admire,
much to inspire me with hope
and healing heartful ambition.

And yet what truly astounds me
as around me the world persists
in twisting tormented indifference—

as not a single day goes by free of
the stilted roles feigningly performed
by manacled souls mouthing vows—

is that there is no falsehood in her
nor even taint of ungracious craving,
no cruelty nor malicious ignorance.

She is of all things the most honest,
most endearing darling soul I have
encountered in such a long long time.

And for the simple
knowing of her I am
so very grateful.

Salt Lake City 20 May 2022