Page 19 - Contrast1991Spring
P. 19
and if there's such a thing as Sin, it takes root evertime we turn
our head and smile at that tall bank building when folks is homeless.
It pokes its green head through the leaves
ever time we eat till we're sick and kids is starvin'.
It grows thorns ever time folks is fightin' for their rights
and we stand by quiet, behind locked doors and fences.
It cuts us ever time we watch our brothers and sisters go
to fight for power mongers and profit worshipers
who duck their heads behind marble walls and say
"they're off to fight for freedom."
It snares us when it teaches us how not to cry.
It kills us when it shows us how not to sing.
-Pat Blackman
14
