Answer Me This
Americans have overcome many great trials,
But harbor too some persistent denials.
Stubbornly clutching long-held positions,
Over time have become national traditions.
Pride in the sanctity of individualism,
Elevates in stature, creating a schism.
Unresolved core beliefs, rationalization,
Test the thinking of this citizen nation.
Answer Me This:
Why do so many use the credo that "the ends justify the means"?
Knowing that this is not always true is not a revelation.
Similarly, two wrongs do not make a right.
Provisional right and wrong are practically necessary.
Short-term gain cannot be exchanged sacrificing long-term integrity.
Answer Me This:
Why can't we resolve gender, race, religious, age and sexual orientation biases and discrimination?
Most of the world understands, we lag behind.
Nearly 7 billion people think of us as one human family.
Much of America still does not agree.
Answer Me this:
Why can't we balance individual self interest and collective interest equitably?
When individual interest substantially effects the health and safety of the collective, it must give way.
Answer Me This:
Why does our foreign policy say "my enemy's enemy is my friend"?
This faulty logic does not allow that the enemy's enemy may be another enemy.
This can lead to dire diplomatic consequences.
All these basic questions are easy to dismiss,
Eventually representing an intellectual abyss.
Our people have shown courage under duress,
Demonstrating kindness to others and selflessness.
Our ability to think, innovate, create,
Is really no matter for international debate.
The world sees our achievements one must confess,
Over centuries no other rivals America's progress.
So why, after all, can't you answer me this,
These things that we do and continually miss?
Copyright © Greg Gaul | Year Posted 2018
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