Poem: "The Pain of the World" by Ram Dass

The pain of the world will sear and
break our hearts because we can no
longer keep them closed.

We've seen too much now.
To some degree or other, we have
surrendered into service and are willing
to pay the price of compassion.

But with it comes the joy of a single,
caring act.

With it comes the honor of participating
in a generous process in which one rises
each day and does what one can.

With it comes the simple, singular grace
of being an instrument of Love,
in whatever form, to whatever end.