Words are not love

That is to say
           that the sky is blue
with just a few
           high clouds
and barely
           a breath of wind

As fine a day
           as you could hope for
at this time of year
           A birthday approaches
but plans have been
           cancelled

There is no appetite
           for celebration
but this mood will pass
           as all things pass
One should not allow
           the emotions to gain
the upper hand :
           the love of words
can be a betrayal
           when things are said
for effect and do not come
           from the heart

Let us remind ourselves
           that words are not love
and poetry has no responsibility
           other than to itself

John Lyons