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Integrity

I said no word when silence burned my tongue, The truth within me sang, though none had heard; I kept it close, a lark with silver lung, And fed it not with fear, but with a word They came with garlands twined in flattery’s thread, Their hands all sweet with bribes and sugared lies— But I had seen the stars go cold and dead, And still believed in light behind the skies. There is a stillness deeper than retreat, A quiet strength that does not cry or bend; It walks alone on frost-enchanted street And counts no loss except a broken end. I wore no crown but dared to stand apart, The winds were sharp, but I kept clean my heart. Let others feast on praise, on gold, on guile— I’ll keep my soul, and walk the longer mile. For truth is flame, and I its willing spark.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2025




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Book: Reflection on the Important Things