Exporting democracy: Holy Land, Holy People
Editors, Asheville Global Report,
While diplomats and journalists
belabor nuanced connotations of the word
disproportionate,
in the news
we witness, strewn across the land
empty little shoes.
On the backs of tiny children
our crushing conundrums are carried.
Without shelter, safety, food or water
the wounded wail
inhaling dust rising from habitations
pulverized by our exported madness.
Weeks drag on.
Hospitals are bombed. Ambulances
are bombed. Aid workers are bombed.
Fleeing families are bombed.
International rules of engagement?
With flagrant disregard we, civilized,
underwrite and sign this check.
As Lebanon lies smoldering in ash
bleeding victims bury the long dead
while hatred smelted in the inferno of war
is hammered,
refined and sharpened against America.
Israel licks its wounded northern flank
and hopes for better days ahead.
We all hope.
A sick and wilting hope
covers the Holy Land
gilding a deep and terrible rage.
Blood runs in the streets
where Jesus, Mohammed and Abraham walked.
Will the lion ever lie with the lamb?
Cry out Jerusalem, cry out for all your children.
Thank you AGR for taking the time and care to fully inform us of this our most recent and tragic human folly.
Sophia V. Brooks
Black Mountain, NC