PostPoems Be Artistic. Be Creative. Be Inspired!

[the Honorable James Whitehead, installed November 9, 1888]

In my opinion, too much ostentation

can lead to feelings of hot aggravation

at worst; or yet, at least, a chilled contention.

Even Traditions' most ancient convention

does not cast on the Lord Mayor's dignity

a sense of cheap, witless vulgarity.

Rather, in real Christian humility,

let us proceed with hearty courtesy

toward our good friends, and gentle charity

for those, unknown to us, who suffer need.

Thus, conscience will not stagger as we read

the Gospel, if we act in true accord

with those most loving precepts of our Lord.

Starward

[jlc]