GRACED BY HIS PRESENCE

Last night, in a pleasant and quite vivid dream
I encountered the leader I highly esteem.
Barack and I then conversed until late
Of people and presidents, of love and of hate.

As we strolled through city and forest and field,
We compared what conflict or peace would yield.
“We can pull ourselves out of our mindless insanity
If we reward goodness throughout all humanity.”

He radiated wisdom, respect, and good will:
“Haven’t slowed down– I’m an activist still!”
He smiled as he urged, “Always do what is right.
Use logic, not impulse, and avoid that fight.
Sow seeds of goodness― in writing and vocally.
Grow virtue and ethics, both globally and locally.
Value good qualities each person can nourish.
Eliminate barriers so humankind can flourish.
Use compassion and ethics as firm foundations
Of families and clans and peoples and nations.”

I awoke, and heard his voice in the distance
Echoing a message with solemn persistence:
Go for it! Persevere! Climb up that steep hill!
Keep pushing for peace and justice, friend Will!”

Will Walsh