Thinking About Today

It’s been said that a poet who reads his verse in public may have other nasty habits, and I assure you that I do.  As I look back at the chaos of this morning, 9 years ago, and at the ways in the which the world has changed since then, this one goes through my mind.  I wish I could dedicate it to Florida pastor Terry Jones in some kind of post-ironic jab, but I can’t bring myself to do it.  I could almost dedicate it to the web-hosting company Rackspace, which yesterday took the sites of the Dove World Outreach Center offline for violating their acceptable use policy.   In Geeks We Trust!

But really, this is for everyone, of all faiths, of all nations, of no faith, of no nation – we’re all stuck on this rock together.  Make the best of it.

 
hope leaves

In the battles, from trenches to rooftops, hope leaves.
As the jury reads the verdict, in the eyes of innocence, hope leaves.
As we take the last bite of the apple, hope leaves.

Hope leaves while the crowd roars and twitters away its freedom to congregate.
Hope leaves while propositions of hate carry the day.
Hope leaves while the unshorn are prodded by the unprincipled to vote for the uneducated.

Hope leaves as I look into the eyes of my children and tell them we have to move.
Hope leaves as we bury our friends, one by one.
Hope leaves a bittersweet taste in my mouth. 

Hope leaves a reminder of what we’re fighting for.
Hope leaves the chance for appeal.
Hope leaves the seeds of a new tree.
Hope leaves the technology of change available to those who will use it.
Hope leaves no room for hate, no room for intolerance.
Hope leaves the promise of a new day in the morning.
Hope leaves the chance to make a new life, to start again with your own good hands and your family.
Hope leaves the light of what comes after, in the shining glory of a sunset, in a remembered voice, a favorite song.

Hope leaves no room for hate.

2 Responses to “Thinking About Today”

  1. Wow, hope has given me so many opportunities. What a beautiful poem, so eloquently said and touched me in many lines. Another line or two to use in the future.
    Hope gives light when there is sadness,
    Hope give strength to love those around you,
    Hope gives the skills to a young ones hand and eyes’
    and hope gives life to grow!

    The Poet,
    Lauren

  2. @Lauren: Well said, and I’m glad you liked it!

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