HEAVEN AND EARTH

One day—may it come soon—we’ll have a pill
For every malady that makes us ill
And causes all disease, both physical
And moral, so we’ll then be sensible
And whole, in all ways healthy, sane and well,
Living in bliss, no longer knowing Hell,
For what we once called Heaven will be here
On Earth, where love prevails and none knows fear.

“But wait!” you say, “Is that indeed what we
Desire: just bliss and calm serenity?
What of the risks and challenges that made
Our fragile lives adventurous and displayed
Some of our grandest traits: courage and love?
No—let’s keep Hell on Earth and Heaven above.”

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