I Went Out Into America

 

I went out into America

And saw a man shooting

With a machine gun

I asked him why

He said he was angry

I said I understand.

Went out into America

Saw a mother and child hungry

I asked why

She hung her head

I said I understand

Went to dwell in America

Found people of faith impoverished

Asked them why

Said they might win a lottery - someday

I said I understand

Went to Washington DC

Saw politicians

Asked them why

Why were men angry?

Mothers hungry?

People poor with no hope?

 

They said don’t make waves.

I don’t understand

Earth is plentiful.

Oceans wide. 

What good has come from greed and pride ? 

Power to control who lives and who dies?

 Manipulation through transparent lies? 

When all could share the bounty of life 

 

 

I understand anger, shame and grief.

 I understand we need some relief.

What I don’t understand is someone’s belief

 that certain people are undeserving of love. 

 

Because they differ in appearance or view

What the world needs now

is something NEW.