You shade the light of brighter lights,

In order that you shine,

More brightly by comparison.

And often by comparison,

To one who’s locked in fright.

You seem bright.

But if the brighter light can break,

From prison in the shade.

The glare can be incredible,

The joy it sends incredible.

And even from a mile,

Light a smile.

So beware all you shady ones,

Your power will not last.

You cannot lock the light inside,

For next time that you look inside,

To check what it’s about,

It shines out.

 JB 2001