The poet’s first three attempts to upload this poem’s recording met with the results in the image at page bottom.

As may be seen by the icons at top right of that image, her device was indeed fully connected to the Web at that time.

A full restart under EMP protection, followed by immediate attempt, resulted in successful upload.

The time of these events was noon exactly.

*****

Recorded Reading (2:09): https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/lowdh5mkfkqcgnr0cr593/Power-With.mp3?rlkey=vgg9s67h664ffp5emcr62vhpn&dl=0

*****

Power With

So long as we believe one person must
Dread power over others exercise
We cannot help it ~ we will be unjust ~
True power is created otherwise

But seldom is it that force is required
In action or demeanor, or in speech ~
Make ourselves but respected and admired
More potent states of influence to reach

Though force applied inappropriately
Might get us some small part of what we want
It brings along such future misery
So many ghosts, our happiness to haunt

Discriminating ‘twixt the two necessities
And erring, if we err, toward love’s side,
We build ensuing days our hearts will please
And neighborhoods to live within with pride

Myself, I mean to you nothing but well
Nor aught suggestion ever seek to give,
No present insight ever try to tell,
But makes it easier for all to live

Together in productive harmony —
I would not at expense of anyone
A selfish motivation seek to see,
Considerate of what may have begun

To inconvenience another here
Before I venture any statement make —
You may receive it without so much fear,
I try nothing at all from you to take

Perhaps there others be with whom you go
Whom reasons make for you to forceful be
(Though not as many as you think you know)
But ‘twixt us there is no necessity

For any inconsideration, large or small ~
I do assure you, it is not a myth:
True leadership for benefit of all
Consists not in “pow’r over,” but “pow’r with”

*****

*****

This poet presently lives at a fraction of her nation’s poverty level.

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