Resting In Peace

In civil society
death does not confer
the sting of censure.
For death, that ultimate
most final condition
that stills the voice
stifles the intent
and gives balm to the
countless harms foisted
on the hapless, represents
an adversary all face
equally, all fear in
equal measure. So,
when one is beckoned 
to that dark and silent
realm of forever,
witnesses must hush
their memories that
rankle, their unseemly
antipathy, turning from
spite to humble regret
audibly declaring respect
for the Dear Departed.