All night my heart has held new-feathered words,
Deep-nested, not yet strong enough for flight,
But, pushing upward like small winging birds,
They seek their freedom in the morning light.
My lips must be made ready with the curve
That love imparts to send words forth at length
With tone of voice empowered to preserve
Their innate grace and God-provided strength.
These fledgling words when softly said will live
To soar in brotherhood's felicity,
For I shall ask my neighbor to forgive
A thoughtless deed of selfishness in me.
Small, dovelike words with vigor in release
Will add their concord to a worldwide peace.
