What if—just for a day
I decided to lay aside those things
that seem to separate me from certain others?

What if—just for a day
I decided to let mercy
triumph over justice
in my own heart?

What if—just for a day
I decided to believe the best
of those I know?

What if—just for a day
I decided to put a smile
over all my worries
and trust that the One
who feeds the sparrows
and adorns the lilies
would also care for me?

What if—just for a day
I decided that I would expect good
rather than evil?

What if—just for a day
I decided that I would forgive
—from the heart—
every insult and every injury?

What if—just for a day
I decided that I actually would
love my enemies,
bless those who curse me,
return good for evil,
clothe the naked,
feed the hungry,
truly bless the widow and orphan,
care for those who are sick,
visit those who are in prison,
welcome the stranger,
share with others?

What if—just for a day
I truly obeyed
the One to whom I pray?
And quietly lived
my greatest praise?

Maybe then—at least for a day
I could hope (and pray)
that “I” might turn into “we?”

H. Arnett
1/12/18