what’s happened to what used to be?
who put up fences between you and me?
when did it all fall apart?
what put such hate in so many hearts?
can we back it up and stop the storm?
before it does any more harm…
we live in a world where ordinary sounds
take on more ominous meanings
where the worst is assumed…
if a child is heard screaming
because there no longer seems to be…
any such thing…as safe play…
or innocent fun
not when sudden silence…
so often comes from the barrel of a gun
and life can be taken in the blink of an eye
where women are treated as property
a thing to be destroyed without reason
with no consequences to be seen
just the trauma left behind
but I remember running and screaming
simply because it felt freeing
it’s a healthy expression
for a child growing through wild emotions
and that…can no longer happen
a world where sirens now mean danger
and badges mean beatings
when what should mean safety…
now means something more sinister
because they’ve been given permission…
to employ violence with impunity
(and they do…)
we’re being governed…
by the worst examples of humanity
lacking in conscience and compassion
they wield their strength…
masked…with fists and baton
there is no justice to be found…
in crushing and controlling by fear
in forcing a man to his knees
and then destroying his dignity
but I believe in the goodness within
I know I don’t stand alone
I see them…rising in the streets
raising their voices in unity
demanding a world less divided
lifting hope like a shield
building power in community
we find honor…
in truth and in honesty
because they aren’t always used in tandem
as they take words completely out of context
creating a maelstrom of hate
in an out of control vortex
but truth will always rise to the top
until one day the cruelty done…
and those who dealt it…
will never be forgotten
Powerful and poignant.
Thank you, Thomas
Powerfully penned, Willow. Excellent write that really puts perspective on the current state of affairs in this country. Sometimes it feels like a nightmare we can’t wake up from don’t you think? I’m verklempt just thinking about it. Trying to stay hopeful feels impossible sometimes but I carry on knowing that there are good folks out there and I’m not alone. Time to gather around the bonfire. I’ll bring some more marshmallows. Amazing read as always. Appreciate you.
Damian
I don’t think it’s even just our country. I see images and stories of atrocities and read about it and a lot of them aren’t even here. We’re in global crisis, I think. But what’s happening in our own yard is madness wrapped around brass knuckles and guns. But I see goodness and community a lot more than they anticipated. And it’s making them desperate. Desperate creatures do vile things. But they’re outnumbered. Anybody have a guitar to play at the bonfire? Music feeds the soul. Thank you, my friend