Let Us Not Forget To Remember - Tim Hicks

[Lawrence Robinson]

Let Us Not Forget To Remember

First, let us not forget that we do not know where we are,
however far the distances behind the stars.
And let us be grateful here for our atmosphere 
and not forget its thin and graceful covering. 
Let us also remember the teaming multitudes of microbes that sustain us,
for they also know not where they are and would continue.
And so also, let us not forget that the greater part of our suffering is self-inflicted, 
and in that regard, let us remember that we have choices, 
as difficult as they sometimes are to seize.
Let us remember that our actions, each and every one, 
are measured by the standard of goodness for others,
however much we may ignore it.
And let us be willing to look at our own measure, in its face, 
more willingly even than we are to look at the stars and wonder.
And let us also be able to forgive our trespasses, 
and those who trespass against us, 
but let us not use them, ours or theirs, as excuses.

It is so very hard to be true to the passage of time,
as if we were immortal and kindness can be delayed. 
Let us remember that this is no dress rehearsal, 
that what is done is done, changing everything. 
Let us do whatever we can to excise violence from our relations, oh yes, 
let us do what we can to excise violence from our relations.
This is the work of the ages.
Let us imagine we were not to use violence in our relations,
never mind what it seems we would have to give up. 

And let us remember that our remembering only serves while we are here. 
Therefore, let us not delay. 
I say this to you and to me, 
forgetful as I am, 
as I near my end and will not much longer last. 

	- Tim Hicks