THE GOAL

for Nicholas Maxwell

         Though we may aim at wisdom as our goal,      
         Proclaiming we are Homo sapiens,    
         It’s obvious we’ve less than full control    
         Of our misdeeds, with many sins to cleanse.

       How likely is it then we can grow wise
       Unless it’s patiently and one by one,
       For it takes time and care to realize
       What roads to follow and what ways to shun?

       To turn away from error and return
       To innocence in search of sanctity
       Means we must learn to patiently discern
       What serves the Earth and saves humanity.

            For what is wisdom but to realize
            What is of value to our enterprise?

*