Of All Things Valued
by Michael Doyle

Like pieces arranged on the chessboard
The Man from La Mancha bears his sword
Prince or pawnbroker, there is trade for madness
But only the type that perpetually leads to sadness

The battle with evil and giants cannot compare
With the language of errant knights spoken fair
These are the tokens of affection to be worn
As emblems into each of the battles for which he was born

Some madmen are easier to love than others
While life goes on and we're joined as eternal brothers
Picking up the pieces after every battle lost
All that serves as "the because" is worth the cost

One wants to believe in those who believe in our best
And hold their truths as those unworthy of any contest
Approaching each challenge like a precious sacrament
A good knight seeks to kiss the hem of his lady's garment

The disillusioned and peasants fail to recognize true gold
Distinguished from those foolish ores stolen in days of old
Who is to say what it is that is useless to hold and see
Of all the things most valued by you and me

(c) August 5, 2023   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved