By Leni Marlina**
Mint leaves can freshen breath, but cannot mend
A heart wounded by words, their scars deep and true.
Hurtful speech leaves marks beyond a simple scent,
Guard your mouth, preserve your dignity too.
Speak with wisdom, gentle and kind,
For words can wound, their healing slow.
In morning light, a promise we find,
To choose our words, let kindness flow.
Each word spoken can heal or can harm,
They linger in the air, they hold such power.
With a gentle voice, extend an arm,
In compassion's embrace, let love flower.
Beneath the skies of morning light anew,
Let every phrase be tender, each syllable fair.
For words once said cannot undo,
They remain, an echo in the air.
So, let us speak with thoughtful grace,
Each sentence woven with care.
In the morning light's warm embrace,
Let kindness be the words we share.
As the day begins and shadows fade,
Resolve to speak with a mindful heart.
In morning light, let peace be made,
And from our lips, let only kindness depart.
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*It was originally written in Leni Marlina's private poem collection in 2010 in Padang, West Sumatra.
**She is a lecturer at FBS Universitas Negeri Padang; the member of the writers association of Satu Pena, West Sumatra, Indonesia & Victoria Writers, Australia.
