Stand Up, Friend, With Me

They are not silent like workhorses
Who are happy or indifferent about the plow and the wagon;
Donkeys don't submit like that
For they are sensitive
And cry continually under their burdens
. . .
And if I tried to explain to them
Why work is not only necessary but good,
I am afraid that they would never understand
And kick me with their back legs
As commentary on my wisdom.

Quoted on September 28, 2011