Affliction

Generosity is essential

Altruism our ideal

Benevolence is our commitment

Kindness our uppermost zeal

Selfishness is an adversary

Conceit our worst corruption

Complacency is beguiling

Vanity a temptation

Despondency is congenital

Anguish our inheritance

Suffering is ubiquitous

But counsel not so ceaseless

Agony distresses our neighbors

Trial overlooks no one

Misery afflicts our closest friends

Torment passes over none

Encouragement's our obligation

Charity for the depressed

Compassion is our imperative

Loving others in distress

Written 13 April 2021. Published 15 August 2022.