In The Air

There is a venom that flows in our land
It surfaces in our politics, sports, and schools
Concerned we should be of it's demands

For it takes more than talking with ears always closed
Hearing but not understand other's points of view
Stop a minute to ponder your own words
One reason why elders are said to have paid dues

For they have experienced much that has been pleasant
Yes much may have been really good
But also roadblocks, obstacles, and collisions
For some amazing that they weathered all they could

It is to all that I seek a brief audience
Not to blame either youth or the more seasoned hand
But rather what brings paths together
For isn't that what our well being demands?

We grow weary of hot air from the "leaders"
Then turn off and don't want to vote
Not worried if others are troubled
Just make sure they don't rock your boat

But I am idealistic to think about that vessel
That was made wide enough by us when we saw
A baby's suffering, and widow scarred by violence
The hole of desperation and it's many claws

Unfair is the cry from some people
Why does my income have to be redistributed so
For those people that don't look anything like us
Conditioning them to the government dole?

But what is worse is even those programs
That evidence tells us can affirm a positive mode
Are subjected to scorn and hateful charges
For if intimidated then maybe they fold

So I worry for the health of this nation
In both physical but too the ways not plain to see
And will do what I can in my limited fashion
Hoping we nurture the space that we so need