"Value"

  To those who share encouragement and support
To the many that remain anonymous and silent
With sincere humility I offer these feeble words
Though not to condemn, rather to enlighten

You never know how profound an effect
a kind word or thoughtful criticism may induce
Your observations may spur greater things,
if shared, not locked within

So, this is the point of inquiry
'What one thing gives everything its value'

There are no wrong answers
This, an exercise in expanding perspective
Many responses are well suited
but there is one that fits best

'What one thing gives everything its value'
The best answer is revealed,  
though a different tense,
in each of the first two stanzas

Sharing

If one paints a masterpiece, then buries it,
ever to remain lost
Never sharing its beauty, not even with self
It is of no value

If one could print millions of dollars,
then choose to lock it away in a vault,
never to be shared
No value

If one has the ability to help solve
a problem or assist someone in need
whether they be a stranger,
coworker, friend or family

Their difficulty may be spiritual,
emotional, physical,
vocational, financial or educational

If one can offer assistance, a kind word
or mentor those who are in search
of one with experience, able to teach

But ability and talent stay locked within,
neglecting the need, never to relay
knowledge or wisdom

So unfortunate, if in this state
Selfish, isolated, or disconnected
Should 'we' remain, never sharing

'We' are of no value