If You Knew by Ruth Muskrat Bronson



If you could know the empty ache of loneliness,

          Masked well behind the calm indifferent face

Of us who pass you by in studied hurriedness,

          Intent upon our way, lest in the little space

Of one forgetful moment hungry eyes implore

          You to be kind, to open up your heart a little more,

I’m sure you’d smile a little kindlier, sometimes,

          To those of us you’ve never seen before.


If you could know the eagerness we’d grasp

          The hand you’d give to us in friendliness;

What vast, potential friendship in that clasp

          We’d press, and love you for your gentleness;

If you could know the wide, wide reach

          Of love that simple friendliness could teach,

I’m sure you’d say “Hello, my friend,” sometimes, 

          And now and then extend a hand in friendliness to each

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