CLXVIII and CLXIX

"Ten times thyself were happier than thou art" and "An old coworker's wisdom"

Imagine—just imagine, fellowman—

that there were ten of you to be around.

Be very optimistic, if you can,

see all the opportunities that could be found.

See all that you accomplish that is good,

compounded tenfold on the world at large.

And every kindness which you publish would

expound exponentially to your charge.

I do not think the bad would compound so,

for is not evil done when we’re alone?

How good would be your heart if it could know

that others know what it has always known?

So if we all could do with more of you,

do not hold back the good that you might do.

~~~

Say, Paul, what was that thorn stuck in your side?

Did all your loved ones know just what it was?

Was it embarrassing? A thing to hide?

Some painful memory that gave you pause?

I say that there are many equal thorns,

and any would be synonyms with yours.

Of course, that’s why your letters you adorned

with mention of its rapping at your doors.

It’s easy to relate to your regret

if knowing that yours, too, never declined.

Or if it was indeed a fleshly fret,

my own bone splintering’s not far behind.

How wise and seer-like, you, to be so coy,

to speak to all in Suffering’s employ.