Power

Power
By Ruthie Stickney

Power…
In a baby’s laugh,
In a smile from a stranger,
In a simple touch from a lover,
In an unexpected phone call from a friend,
In the warm rays of the sun,
In the gentle murmur of a stream,
In a giant bear hug,
Power…

Power…
Wielded by Rulers,
Wielded by Doctors,
Wielded by Employers,
Wielded by Teachers,
Wielded by Parents,
Wielded by Spouses,
Wielded by Friends,
Power…

Power…
To heal and mend,
To hurt and to wound,
To build and restore,
To break and tear,
To imagine and create,
To deface and destroy,
To inspire and give hope,
Power…

Power…
I hold power in my hands,
You hold power in your hands,
We all have power,
Whether we know it or not,
How will you use your power?
Unthinkingly and for harm?
Or to encourage and provide healing?
Power…