"Why Lydia Bought Fred a Bourbon," by Hans Ostrom, Lyrics, and Judge Rob...

A Pixel in the Picture

Trying to be enough

in others' eyes, you got used
at working at life too hard--
performing. By

accident you discovered
that it's better
all around just to do
your part--

whatever that is. Those
tasks. Cook, tidy up, listen,
work, care, remain rational.
Just doing, not

performing. A pixel
in the picture
of the common good.
One day someone

said she was impressed
with your kindness. She
may have added "sweetness."
You were surprised.

A bit grateful.
But not tempted
at all to start doing
tricks.

hans ostrom 2023

"be kind," by Charles Bukowski

video/reading of a poem by "Hank"--about 50 seconds. Charles passes harsh judgment in this one.

link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCRMp1se6Jw