Accountability
Just read in the papers
your name once more;
illogical the powers
which huddle unseen.
You sat in my class,
scholarship’s pilgrim.
I recall your nascent soul,
tranquil but with drive.
Now, your face, a shock
which scorches my eyes,
Pondering your death
mercifully, my spirit cries.
Last year, reports of gangs
front page news, three guys,
a dusting of charges
assault, theft, DUI’s.
A battle raging.
I thought at the time to call you.
Would it have helped?
Then last month, I read
where you chose to combine
drugs and murder
and it landed you in prison.
The essence of deceit,
you found in suicide.
When did you quit
your search for truth?
As an earthly priest
discreetly I pray
knowing your reward
is beyond my ken.
Your funeral I cannot bear.
An unyielding sense of
guilt shouts, "Shame!"
within this teacher’s core.
August 20, 2019
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