Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses (Proverbs 27:6).

Tell me it quick and tell it straight --
Too many Others lie
Multiplied kisses of Flattering Words
The kisses my Death belie
But wounds from a Friend can be trusted
With explanation kind
The Mirror of Truth oft' comes in Friends
Without which I'm sadly blind.


*** With acknowledgments and apologies to the late, great Miss Emily Dickinson. ***