A National Disgrace

I want to write a thing or two about racism 
A current problem causing quite a schism 
Perhaps it could be seen through another prism 
Outside the jaundiced lenses of current activism. 

My thoughts are my own, not influenced by race, 
I try not to judge others by the color of their face 
Never thought too much about anybody’s “place” 
Always believed our bigotry was a national disgrace. 

In our little community everyone was accepted 
Everyone, excepting for the very rich,* were respected 
All of us by our circumstances were inter-connected 
Only lawbreakers, whatever their shade, were arrested. 

When we use words like race and racism in patter 
When we raise our eyebrows at Black Lives Matter 
The more we go along with unnecessary evil chatter 
We serve up national discord on a political platter. 

We should treat everyone like a family member 
And when tempted to prejudice always remember 
We owe to our ancestors, with all due candor, 
Our place of birth, color of our skin, and our gender. 

No one of us is any better than the other of us, see, 
We all have the same inherent rights to be free 
If someday we stand before a Holy Creator, I guarantee 
S/he will see no base differences between you and me! 

     [*truth is, I think we did look down on the
     rich folks, especially if they thought they
     were better than us poor folk!]

Written 3/14/2021

HONORABLE WINNER
All-Poetry Contest
July 29, 2021
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

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Pettit Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 3:36 PM
Milton, you summed it up quite well in this great write. Racism and bigotry will always be pervasive not just in this country, but all over the world.
Hankins Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 3:50 PM
I'm afraid so, Robert. Commonplace...and oh so ugly!
Devonshire Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 2:08 PM
Yes, Yes, Yes! It truly is a disgrace that people of color are treated differently. In some Southern towns, it's like the Civil War never ended. I like the way you expressed your angst, Milton! Hugs, Carolyn
Hankins Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 3:21 PM
Thanks, Carolyn. I truly appreciate it when you read one of my poems and respond positively. It's a nourishing encouragement.
Mcconnell Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 1:24 PM
Great strong piece so well penned with good imagery and great rhyme too. In a comment you spoke of Bible's words to love the neighbour, interestingly in today's Spurgeons morning and evening daily readings it's on that subject. Take care , blessings, Gordon
Hankins Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 1:50 PM
Thanks, Gordon. I really appreciate your comments and the information.
Wolf Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 12:09 PM
That part about the rich folk was true when I lived in a small town... But when I've lived in metropolitan areas, almost everyone has been insanely jealous of the rich folk; they get treated like 'gods.' As for race: I've never lived in a place where it hasn't been a problem, small town or big city. Just seems like there's no 'legislating love.' And you can't force someone not to hate someone else either. One more thought: 'Hate crimes' are a bad idea. Murder is murder... Peace, Gershon
Hankins Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 1:50 PM
Thanks for reading my poem, Gershon, and your comments are well-taken. It's a very difficult issue.
De Beaulieu Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 11:54 AM
Hello Milton Hankins, I agree with all that you said. I say Hello to everyone I come across. Have a little chat then i am on my way. I always have done this and always will. Enjoy your day my friend.
De Beaulieu Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 6:52 PM
Hello Milton, yes it does take small geatures from everyone to change the entire complexion of our society. Enjoy your evening my friend.
Hankins Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 1:49 PM
Aw, thanks, Darlene. It takes such small gestures from everyone to change the entire complexion of our society.
Krutsinger Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 5:28 AM
“We should treat everyone like a family member.” I am meeting my cousin for supper on Monday. The kids at school used to argue we could not be cousins because of our diverse skin colors. To this I used to say “we are spiritual cousins” which quelled them.
Hankins Avatar
March 14, 2021 at 8:02 AM
Fantastic! I just wish more folks would take my words more to heart. I believe the Bible says "...love thy neighbor as thyself." Caren, you obviously have a good, good heart! Thanks for all your encouragement.
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