Discreet

I know we've been taught to believe
that it's wrong to willfully deceive.
But raw truth causes cutting pain,
and friendships are never the same.
If rumors about a friend are spoken
deny them, pay them not a token.
If you're asked to judge another,
bypass his flaws, be as his brother.
Nothing good flows from words stark
hide them, bury them in the dark.
I confess none of this is anything new,
only affirming what you already knew.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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Puddifoot Avatar
February 18, 2022 at 1:50 PM
wise words..i'm very discreet.;) lol
Schneiter Avatar
February 18, 2022 at 3:30 PM
Thank you, Charlotte, for your kind comment. Hugs, Paul
Kalita Avatar
November 26, 2021 at 7:32 AM
Each and every syllable is universal and true to the core. Sometimes, grapevine is in the air from the known ones and people might be get trapped by the pretended innocence, needn't yo be paid heed of. So much this poem has said for the mementos introspection... Silpika
M  Avatar
October 28, 2021 at 10:57 PM
Hi Paul…..I really enjoyed this poem and others I’ve read…..all so full of heart! Debx
Davis Avatar
July 21, 2021 at 12:58 PM
I loved your poem, so profound, and so true least we forget.
Schneiter Avatar
July 21, 2021 at 5:27 PM
Thank you, jo. I value and appreciate your kind, supportive comment. All good wishes, with hugs, Paul
Wolf Avatar
July 6, 2021 at 3:32 PM
Beautifully expressed, Paul. Timeless words of wisdom here. A FAVE for me. Thanks, Gershon
Schneiter Avatar
July 6, 2021 at 8:18 PM
I'm grateful to you, Gershon, for your kind words. I hope all is well with you and your loved ones. Paul
Laurie Avatar
July 3, 2021 at 10:36 PM
Hello Paul … so often gossip with little substance grows on the grapevine and soon everything is blown out of proportion. Your verse is a lesson for these gossipers Paul - Lindsay
Schneiter Avatar
July 5, 2021 at 12:16 PM
Thank you, Lindsay. I wonder why it is that we so often tend to think the worst about others. It doesn't cost us anything to give them the benefit of the doubt--to think well of them. Hugs & Love, Paul
Balasubramanian Avatar
June 30, 2021 at 10:42 AM
Well said. I agree with what you wrote and wish all would follow. Not many follow although these things are repeated often
Schneiter Avatar
June 30, 2021 at 8:13 PM
Thank you, Rama, for your kind, supportive comment. I value your words. Blessings, Paul
Merryman Avatar
June 29, 2021 at 7:39 PM
An excellent message, Paul! It's one we have heard before but need a reminder every now and then. Blessings, Kim M
Schneiter Avatar
June 29, 2021 at 8:42 PM
Thank you, Kim. I value and appreciate your thoughtful comment. The poem doesn't get high marks for originality, but perhaps its message (as you note) makes it viable. Hugs, Paul
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