Downcast
Eyes
Is
it shyness, indifference, or guilt
that turns your eyes
from meeting others?
Does
it matter in the big picture
if we do not make contact
with strangers?
Time
is our own,
our space is our own -
why risk being vulnerable;
why let others
enter our world?
And
then the magic moment comes
when you realize
that it is not destiny,
but free will,
that makes our life rich with experience.
When
we let another enter our world,
even for the fleeting moment
of a smile,
of a glance, that says,
"I acknowledge your existence,"
we create a spark of energy
a subtle affirmation of unity,
a step towards peace.
Looks
do not have to be predatory -
they can be an act of blessing.
We fear our desire
to possess
and be possessed.
In
the act of recognition
one already has all,
without possessing.
It is so hard
to love without desire,
to appreciate without coveting.
How
would our world become
if everyone met
in a confident and joyful greeting
rather than with downcast eyes?
©
2000 Richard Sidy
|