incompletely true

there’s something we should realize about our point of view.
and that is that it is only incompletely true.
it is a perspective. nothing more.
it’s suggestive—a part score—
of the incredible totality
of a comprehensive reality.

all that is is. that is all.
but who can take it all in and make a clear call?
all that we see is a part. just a part.
we can’t see what we don’t see,
and knowing that’s a start.

whoever claims more is just bluffing.

so it’s a wonder to me we accomplish anything
when not a single one of us can ever truly bring
a fully formed perception of exactly what is happening.
and everybody’s talking at one time and it’s so maddening.

part of the solution is to look for more.
not to be omniscient, like we know the score.
but to be the person who can share the floor
and gather people’s insights. bring them to the fore.

most of us were taught some type of golden rule,
but it seems to me to be the most forgotten tool.
it’s laid aside in deference to a personal agenda.
a path on rails so hard and straight and difficult to bend. a
closed file. a shut door.
an attitude that nothing more
can be said. or heard. no thought. no word.

when did it become a good idea to ignore the quiet voices?
when we do that aren’t we only limiting our choices?
why don’t we listen to those who don’t see what we see?
why don’t we include their sight in our reality?

i don’t agree that the loudest voice should win.
i don’t think victory should be decided just by din.
i think there’s room for much more humility.
for accord. for rewarding polite civility.

there’s something we should realize about our point of view.
and that is that it is only incompletely true.
but it can become a better thing and I think I know how, too.
for just a moment you be me while i am being you.