I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care;
I would be strong, for there are those who suffer;
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be friend of all--- the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift;
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.

- Howard A. Walter

There is something pure and touching in these simple words; and they surprised me by stirring up a yearning for a seemingly simpler and candid time, friendships dear and old, bittersweet since some have been lost with time. But still, at it’s sweet centre, the still-near desire to be more, to be of service, to find meaning and to embrace peace.