If I am selfish, is it not
Because I'm all that I have got
That's truly mine and mine to love?
Whoever could I place above
That which I am, though it be so small?
To me it seems the sum of all!
You may well scorn such words as vice
But when the veil of what is nice
Is lifted and your heart shows through,
The same is surely true of you!
If I am selfish, still I say
"Don't tread on me or bar my way!"
I'm sport enough to do the same
For you, not spoil your living game.
It's fine to help a friend in need,
I grant, but listen and take heed:
No love is forged of chains of guilt,
And on no alms true friendship built.
George Chadderdon © 1997