Colin F. Jones

TOLERANCE

One presumes with tolerance to be superior to others,
For to tolerate their manner suggests elitist views,
We might tolerate wives; we may tolerate brothers,
We might tolerate kneeling between the pews.

It allows them choice and freedom of movement,
Those whom we consider to be inferior or wrong.
It is an elitist word assuming another’s involvement,
Is not accepted where we think they may not belong.

Tolerance can lead to knowledge and prosperity,
To unlikely friendships and even love,
When the humble discover unforeseen propriety
That suits the hand inside their glove.

Some things are predictable; expected!
Some take the flowers from your garden and run,
By their own persuasion they feel dejected
But they can’t undo what they’ve already done.

But we who are more tolerant forgive them,
As we would readily forgive ourselves,
For we do not have the audacity to condemn,
What lies under the dust upon our shelves.

Submitted for the June 2009 IWVPA Club Theme Project, “Tolerance”