Play upon the heart

The words of the poem
           play upon the mind
they say look up
           from the page
and notice all
           that is around you
take note of the detail
           the state of the world
local and at large
           and of those souls
who move back and forth
           upon its surface
look into their eyes
           and observe their gestures
listen to the qualities
           of their breath
what purpose
           are they about

The words of the poem
           play upon the heart
to love the world
           and those who live
around you
           be generous
in your judgment
           and with your love
because you will want
           to be loved in return
the hands of the clock
           on the cathedral tower
have not moved in years
           what is essential in life
is timeless just as love
           is endless

John Lyons