Riddles

I sat and studied him. Reluctantly he began to speak to the room.

“Let us entertain the riddles that dispense of mere entertainment.

Who here can explain even a single one of these—why such things happen?

The loss of one before their time.

The betrayal of a faithful friend.

Enslavement of a fellow man, woman, or child.

Violence against one who promotes peace.

Hatred of one who loves and serves.”

Hearing no response, he went on.

“If you cannot explain these, how will you ever explain…

One who laughs despite their suffering.

One who hopes amidst injustice.

One who finds courage in calamity.

One who forgives their oppressor.

One who loves their enemy.”