More variations: Xerxes and Dorsimbra patterns

DO WHAT YOU CAN
Find something useful you can do each day,*
lovingly, lovingly,
which alters and improves a life.
For people needing advocates
to smooth the way and help them through,
become a sympathetic friend.

Some thoughtful deed to make a life less blue:
a cheerful note, a gay bouquet.
Forget those useless yesterdays,
and volunteer your services:
a ride to town, a meal brought in.
Help the sad ones longing to be treated
lovingly.

SOMETHING USEFUL

Find something useful you can do each day*
that isn't subject to the world's review--
you need a useful task to lift dismay,
a project you can throw your heart into.

For people needing advocates
to smooth their paths
and help them through,
become a sympathetic friend.

A smile, a phone call or a get-well note,
a trip for groceries or a meal brought in--
To make the earth a better place to live,
find something useful you can do each day.
c lovepat press 2009

*first line of a villanelle