A Speech

Televisions turned up, edges of seats occupied. A figurehead of kindess, an old world leader scheduled to speak. The tantalizing title: "Composed compassion." A guide for all future guides on hospitality, an antonym of haughty hostility.

There was a father, of three scrappy little boys. They were in the other room, playing hacky sack. One, two, three, throw.

"Guys. Guys! Get in here and watch this!" he shouted at them.

"Let us play, let us play," they chanted.

"If you don't get in here and watch this stupid speech this afternoon won't be fun! I will hurt you pests! Come see the man speak."

The scared boys surreptitiously stole glances back and forth as they entered the television-room. Their father was finally able to smile.