could we love so fiercely
without despair?
or grin so widely
without the tear?
or summon great courage
without the fear?
or embrace sobriety
without sweet beer?

Could we run so swiftly
without the slow?
or cherish the suns ray
without the moons glow?
or envy vast riches
without the poor?
or relish in rest
without the chore?

Could we strive for success
without defeat?
or display brute strength
without the weak?
or despise the fog
without days clear?
or seek out praise
without the jeer?

to that which you love
remember it's so
because that which you hate
gives it a soul.

Smoots Rutherford Birdoog