I had to find a way to process the epidemic of gun violence. The sorrow and anger are overwhelming me. As I usually do when I’m hurting, I turn to writing poetry. My poems allow me to say what I need to say. The poetry may not be all that good as far as style and form, but that is not what it is for. It is for me to grapple with my inner turmoil. Here is my poem about gun violence.
America has way too many guns
Whose soul purpose is to kill our daughters and sons
or maybe those whose colored skin
reveals they are not of our clan nor are they kin
They kill those who like a movie show
a concert, the Bible, or they just like to mow
people down in some private sick war
Since guns are so easy to acquire
No waiting period to ponder this hateful reaction
The war-like weapon is ready for action
Yet we blame the victim, then loosen laws
To sell more guns just because
A misguided reading of Amendment 2
Supposedly enshrines the right for me and you
To have an arsenal and thousands of rounds
No license, no training, no conscience around
No well-regulated militia to protect our lands
Only senseless murder promoted by Congress’ bloody hands
So daily in America our daughters and sons
Neighbors and friends succumb to guns.
Don’t talk about hunters or self defense
Write your congressman, get off the fence
“The shooters are crazy”, lawmakers say
“All we do is think and pray”
Follow the money if you want change
The NRA slinks about each firing range
More dues mean more lawmakers in their pay
Preventing legislation from making its way
Toward protecting our neighbors, daughters, and sons
From dying a violent death by guns
Vote to make a change. Clearly these lawmakers are not Pro-Life!!
Photo by Marc Shaefer