Trust

Trust

by Gideon Burton

I met a man who told me once that he

had met his highest aspirations. All

he'd ever wanted he achieved. To see

the dimness in his eyes, I knew some fall

some tragedy had undercut the joy

he should have had in his accomplishments.

I hoped my asking him would not annoy,

attempting just a modest blandishment.

Confessing quietly, he said he'd lost

the trust of someone dear through some betrayal,

and nothing he had won was worth that cost,

despite appearances in his portrayal.

     All things to lose and yet keep sacred trust:

     a treasure that's immune to thieves or rust.

Photo: flickr - Auzigog