If Only

Two words so insignificant
it's hard to realise
how much they can convey to some
while others they just antagonise.

If only we had this or that
is the cry from the material man.
If only they could see, like we,
it's a shallow and selfish plan.

If only we could do this or that
is the cry from those who can't
but many will not attempt it
unless they get a grant.

If only we hadn't done this or that
we've heard it many times
but actions always have consequences
ask anyone who's committed a crime.

If only we'd done better,
now there's a common thought
we often wish we'd considered first
before our actions turned to naught.

If only we'd been able to help
we're closer to the nub
we're starting to think of each other
not trying to join some club.

If only I could remember
to treat each stranger as a friend
then maybe, just maybe, we'd begin
our problems and fences to mend.

So as we enter a New Year
a resolution let's all agree
is to stop shouting out 'if only'
and replace it with 'didn't we'

© Ian Lumley

If only I had written this I`d be a happy man
IanR.

Dear **Ian**: Yes, Attitude matters
(as, only my iffiness scatters).
"Set straight" by the fate
of scanning your plate,
I now might hurl nearly fine patters.

I liked the poem and the message... and yes why dont we! and forget about if only....

have a lovely Christmas and a happy new year x

'If only' I had read your poem before, Ian, then maybe I would have stopped playing the broken record of 'what ifs' in my mind!

A good poem!

Merry Christmas!

Best,
Carol