The Fruitful Tree

Snakes, though their touch is gentle,

When rolled upon, reveal their broken fangs.

A person may fall in love with one who has no wealth in hand,

While the heart may disdain the one whose palm holds gold.

People’s worth lies only in their principles;

Neither wealth nor titles and ranks endure.

When the palm of the base man fills with riches,

He sways in admiration and says, “I... I.”

But a person of noble origin, like a branch,

As it bears more fruit, grows humbler and bows lower.

And this is the fruitful tree.

Tomorrow brings another day...

Zahid Matar