Pride

He was the dearest friend I ever had.
For 20 years we shared all we knew.
Then I said something blatantly bad
And he said our friendship was through.

I had a chance to tender an apology,
But something ill-wrought held me back.
Was it the differences in our theology—
I saw issues as white, he as black?

No, I doubt that was at the core of it.
I suspect unbending pride was in play.
My views vexed the truth I now admit
And I shouldn’t have given them display.

`Tis a pity, for it was a small affair
Nothing to risk our friendship about.
Yet my silence told him I didn’t care,
And left my esteem for him in doubt.

It’s too late now, the Reaper called.
He can’t hear me on the other side.
That fact leaves me achingly appalled. 
All  because of my practice of pride.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2014

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Andresen Avatar
August 28, 2014 at 12:09 PM
- A friendship must accept the strain and disagreement - Friendship requires that there is neither envy, pride or avarice - A clever writing, Paul - With time heals all wounds ..... - oxox // Anne-Lise :)
Gorelick Avatar
August 27, 2014 at 2:54 PM
This is quite moving and full of self examination. Brave you are! I haven't read your work before but will check it out. BG
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