A system of government
powered by the people
through freely elected
representatives

this same representation
sending bomb and bullets
in lands far away
killing sons and daughters
of those forced to stay

while on our own soil
we proclaim the right to bear arms
so those of unwell minds
can kill our sons and daughters
in schools not far away

Isn’t it sad,
don’t you think
will the democratic process
change us from this brink

Photo taken at Soldier and Sailors Monument Circle where an hour earlier protests on both sides of the war between Israel and Hamas took place with pro - Palestinine marchers marching from this monument to the Indiana Statehouse capitol building. This poem is dedicated to all those marching, the desire for a peaceful resolution, and freedom of the afflicted people. As with the end of the Civil War in 1965 as illuminated on top of this monument, I pray for a similar ending to the bloodshed abroad so the living waters can start flowing again.

The third stanza is somewhat unrelated to the conflict abroad, but more so the conflict within. Only through some difficult changes ahead will we bring back safety within our schools and communities.