(In time of war, law falls silent) – Cicero
Even Caesar would lament the apparent wisdom of these words,
for who can deny the failings of human nature?
More observation than advice really.
Despite the deafening clamor that rises from the red-handed mobs
and their hasty misdeeds, the law is far from silent during times of crisis.
Yes, she speaks softly, dragging behind her a big stick, or is it a willow switch?
One that her mother made her cut from a tree in the front yard.
She has never fallen silent; it’s simply not her way.
Her words are clear, deliberate, equally ringing in every ear.
The blindfold makes it difficult to catch up,
but every step brings her closer to the truth.
Consequences often arrive delayed,
hungry and unshaven, delighted to sleep, at last,
in their own beds.
By D. Ryan Lafferty
Literary Crumbs: Poems & Short Stories to Savor by D. Ryan Lafferty 