I Shouldn’t Be Annoyed

I shouldn’t be annoyed
Though others seem devoid

I shouldn’t be annoyed
Though others seem devoid
Of decency and common sense,
And do their best to give offence.

Despite recurring pain,
I really can’t complain.
Although I feel myself unnerved,
No better things have I deserved.

My own poor heart is vile,
And filled with treacherous guile,
And that deceitful, wicked heart
Has often played the tempter’s part.

With my unmanaged tongue
Have I too often stung
The tender feelings of a friend
Whom better dealings should attend.

I creep among the worms
And share their guilty germs
My fellow creatures nothing owe
To one who shares their lot below.

Nita Brainard