Self-control (poem)

Hard it is to be independent
of others, when in their presence
I wrestle with negative emotions and feelings,
which are completely my own.

Easy it is to be independent
of others, when in their presence
I let only positive emotions and feelings
remain in my control alone.

What then is the difference
between negative and positive feelings
but the responsibility for
one's emotions in the face of others
which compassion provides?
This is the gift of loving-kindness.

For loving-kindness has been there
from birth until death, which is not
the choice of any person —
and grateful am I to my Higher Power
for knowing the difference between
what I cannot change and what I can!