THE BEST WE CAN

        I’ve heard it said, “We do the best we can,”
        Although that best is sometimes very bad;
        Had we’d in mind a more enlightened plan,
        The consequences might have been less sad.

        Unfortunately, our insufficiency
        Of intellect, a cause that can’t be blamed,
        Discharges our responsibility,
        Despite what our accusers may have claimed.

        Though we regret the harm that has occurred
        And hope all injured parties find relief,
        The thought of retribution is absurd
        Since that would merely add more woe to grief.

             But still, I think to let clear malice be
             Excused commits a moral fallacy.

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