Command Responsibility
you held the torch, stood at the helm,
promised to protect this fragile realm.
but silence echoed when truth cried out,
and justice drowned beneath the doubt.
you wore the badge, you raised your hand—
but never faced where we now stand.
this isn’t just about the blame,
but the weight behind your name.
command responsibility—
it’s not just power, it’s accountability.
when the ground shakes and the people fall,
leaders don’t vanish behind the wall.
every choice, every silent night—
you answer not with might,
but with what’s right.
you watched the lines drawn deep in pain,
still turned your back again, again.
you spoke of peace, but armed the storm,
left broken hearts as new norms.
this isn't hate, this isn't war—
it’s a plea we can’t ignore.
you can’t lead and look away—
we count the cost you let us pay.
command responsibility—
you carry what you let us see.
when orders fall like silent stones,
we bury names and call them home.
leadership is more than stance—
it’s owning truth
and giving change a chance.
what is a title
if not worn with grace?
what is control
if it leaves no trace
of conscience,
of care,
of courage to face
the mirror’s gaze?
command responsibility—
you can’t escape its gravity.
when history writes what hearts recall,
it won’t be silence that stands tall.
lead, not just with voice and might,
but with a heart
that stands for right.
Copyright ©
Bernard F. Asuncion
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