weather gauge

a means of noting just what seems to matter
contained in a small space we think it plain
not seeing the great powers swell and strain
to put our needs and wants out on a platter
the world outside seeks for rattle and clatter
while we want calm and thought but never pain
each of us watches for the soothing rain
hoping no thunder our cool calm will shatter
cheap truths we've got to offer and to vend
all deeper understandings have to wait
for harder times and far less pleasant days
to every correspondent we shall send
enough to make them eager for the gate
and most desirous of the better ways