I try to be patient

We speak of peace and change

We talk of togetherness and acceptance

They promise it's coming, that they will make it happen

So, I try to be patient

26 are innocently taken

26 with families, lives, dreams, gone

They offer prayers and hold moments of silence "in their honor"

For a plan of action, for prevention, for change,

I try to be patient

He pulled over

He told them of his weapon and his accompanying license

It was just a broken tail light

With his family in the vehicle, he did everything right

But they killed him

Hearing the cries, the anger

I try to be patient

They promote equality

Sometimes they even wave the vibrant and colorful flag

He promises to "protect " them

Then they are targeted with hatred and violence in his name

Despite their efforts, patriotism, and sacrifices they are defending their country

For true acceptance and equality,

I try be patient

They say they love everyone

All their "brothers and sisters"

They talk of helping thy neighbor

But then want to build a wall

And target those who practice differently

They create laws and spread hate

Anything to keep them out

For their aid, I try to be patient

She works hard

Morning workouts, strength training, balance, poise, form

She takes the floor, showcasing her talent, everything she has trained for

Leader, fierce, mentor, champion

Victim

He takes advantage of her youth, undermining her accomplishments, stealing her pride, her innocence, her trust

She tells of his acts, of his violation

For help she tries to be patient

The news spreads

One victim, two, ten

How could this happen?

For justice, for answers, I try to be patient

They insult us

Tell us where we belong, what we can't do, what we should say, how we should look

They try to mandate our healthcare, our choices, lacking the knowledge, misunderstanding our power

They sexualize everything we do and belittle us in doing so

We march and chant

To be heard, I try to be patient

They march

Displaying their symbols of terror

Shouting their ignorant slogans, their agendas of hate

Their classmates, teachers, friends, and family view their acts in horror

Wondering how is this happening? Why now?

I am not sure but I know these are not "very fine people"

For action, solidarity,

I try to be patient

I ask of you my readers, politicians, citizens, at what point do we lose patience? Do our leaders wake up and see the injustice, the hatred, the deterioration, the crumbling of "the land of the free". In no shape or form, is a country who spreads racially targeted hatred, condemns those who wish to serve, defends those who abuse the innocent, or stands silent while innocent lives are taken, and rights are stolen, great or on it's way to being "great again".