APOLOGY
by John T. Baker
To give offense is easy, sadly so;
to make amends, alas a toilsome task;
to fabricate a friend into a foe
less onerous too often than to ask

forgiveness for a harsh word hurled in haste,
an epithet unkind designed to sting,
a careless cold rebuff, the bitter taste
of rancor that a taunting tongue can bring.

To plead for pardon with sincerity,
request that one forgive if not forget
a wrong we've done, requires of us that we
acknowledge fault and then express regret.

Though difficult as it may sometimes be,
befitting ever an apology.