(by Dr. Scott D. Zachary)

Why are you so filled with hate?
Did she slight a self-perceived importance?
Forgive her,
And you’ll again smile and dance.

Did he treat you with disdain?
Is that why you’re so bitter today?
Forgive him,
And you’ll again enjoy and play.

Do her trifles monopolize your mental process?
Does it minimize your happiness?
Forgive her,
And you will be blest.

Did he steal a material prize?
Is that why you dispise?
Perhaps he stole more than you realize—
If you allow him to take your joy with his lies.

If he hadn’t done that—
Or she hadn’t spat . . .
Forget about that.
Your own inner peace is where it’s at.

Forgiveness is not for your malefactors;
It’s power gladdens you.
It will give you serenity and peace;
That’s the message of this treatise.