240802 Judge Judy

 Judge Judy

Didn't think  I was the judging kind

Then "judgy" Thoughts run through my mind

"Why can't she control her little one?"

"Oh my, just look what he has done!"

"Why does that person dress that way?"

"I'm certain I don't act like they. "

Too often thoughts run through my head

Of better things I'd do instead 

If world behaved and thought like me

It'd be a perfect place to be

Though I am seldom indiscreet

How dare I sit in judge's seat

Quick shake of head or roll of eye

Makes it quite clear where my thoughts lie 

Sometimes these thoughts come out my mouth

And that's when things go quickly south

So arrogantly take delight

In proving I'm most surely right

A judge's pleated, long black robe

Has never been in my wardrobe 

So judging other's not my place 

Despite the look upon my face

Nor held a gavel in my hand

So just who do I think I am

Dispensing judgement so freely

On people that I know or see

Yet, I don't want it done to me

Besides, don't know their backstory

For judging's often made in haste

Without an iota of grace

Don't know what they are going through 

Affecting what they say or do

Perhaps their rope has reached an end

Don't need a judge, but need a friend

Instead of someone who's "judgy"

Could better use some empathy

Person who's patient, tolerant

Not someone quick to pass judgement

Someone just like our judge above

With verdicts always done in love

And judgements that are ever just

With rulings that are best for us

Dear Lord, convict me when I choose

To judge rather than walk their shoes

Teach me to love more generously

May that be just how you judge me