Misfortune is the sorry lot of some,
but here most folks I know contend with more
good times than bad. Experiences come
that send one soul to gladness just as sure
as someone else is thrust into despair.
Catastrophe contains a deeper root
that moves entire cultures. Then most share
the work, but there are always those who loot.

November last brought us a tragedy:
predictions shattered in a night’s surprise.
Although the wounds were struck politically,
the stabs were deep. And now the good and wise
are tender, sore and helpful since that date,
while verbal looters celebrate their hate.