CASTING STONES

Quarantine really opened my eyes,

Cutaway the crap.

Helped me prioritise.

What's important? What matters to me?

Health. Nature. Family.

At times it's been uncomfortable, and it's felt strange

But has shown me that I can adapt and I can change.

But what's uncomfortable for me has been unbearable for you,

I couldn't see my family, but I knew I would soon.

Maybe you never will, or perhaps you're trapped with them.

Every day I count my blessings again and again.

But is it enough just to be thankful?

That I was born in my place and not in yours.

That I've seized opportunities and opened doors.

Doors which in your world remain locked with no key,

Opportunities you can't work towards, ones you'll never see.

And my acceptance in that has played a vital part.

Because without recognition, we can't make a start

So now my eyes can't unsee what they have seen.

And I can no longer be what I have been.

I DO want a better world for each and every one.

I DO want to be that change, so NO, I'm NOT done.

I am not OK because this is not OK.

So now you're feeling awkward, and you don't know what to say.

Say something, say anything; we need to hear your voice.

Even just a whisper, that this is not your choice.

I see your anger, but what is that going to achieve?

I'm hurt. I'm upset, and NOONE is listening to me.

So now I have your attention,

Now that I'm screaming and smashing up the place.

Maybe now we can do something to remedy this disgrace.

He who casts the first stone shall be without sin,

so before you pass judgement, I ask you to look within.

Do you know the steps that he took to stand where he is now?

Take time to consider the why, before you respond to the how.

Photo by Kameron Kincade on Unsplash