Do you still cherish life as I do now?
Each single spark of it should burn of joy
And light self-generated. Don't allow
Some minor disconcertion to destroy
The sweet enjoyment of your life that I
Pray not to sacrifice. Things bright and fair
Lie deep inside of you, and I say die
Before you let another tamper there.
For you are strong, and on your soul alone
Will you rely when all is stripped away.
Humanity will set you on no throne—
You'll need to arm yourself with love each day
You live. And never feel to wholly feel,
For only those emotions make you real.
December 18, 1985