The Power Of Sour

"Success is as dangerous as failure.
Hope is as hollow as fear.

What does it mean
that success is as dangerous as failure?
Whether you go up the ladder
or down it,  your position is shaky.

When you stand
with your two feet on the ground,  
you will always keep your balance.

What does it mean
that hope is as hollow as fear?
Hope and fear are both phantoms  
that arise from thinking of the self."

Lao Tzu

The Power Of Sour

I have friends that have infectious enthusiasm.
When they smile, they light up the room.
I hate when I have to give them bad news.
Or balance their optimistic plans
with potential problems on the horizon.

It's even worse when I'm the only one saying it.
You know what they say about the messenger.
That's right - people buy them hot chocolate. :)

My best friendships have been us
looking out for each other.
Working through difficult times.
Not trying to be right but be supportive.
Warning people if they face
a blind spot that could hurt them.
Willing to risk an argument for their safety.

Sour is bad
when you're
expecting sweet.
Being woken up
is bad when you're
trying to sleep.

Getting someone's attention
is pretty basic.
Try getting it 
when they're afraid to look.

Loyalty shows itself over years.

Standing by people
doesn't come with a guarantee.

That never mattered.
And never will.

Robert