“The hearts of men and women are desperately wicked”
I have heard this statement many times
Not realizing you would grow up to be one of them
Heartless
Cold and callous
You may not let bullets fly from a pistol
But your words and silence hurt those you claim to care for
Cutting deeper than knives, spears, and swords in society’s yesteryears

After all
Society does not care
Neither do you
So why should I care about you?
Why should I subject myself to your punishments?
Why should I be crucified like Christ for these sins committed by felons?
Why should I be burdened because I try to live well?

Love will not permit me to be less than human
To look or even sound like you
So I choose to refuse
I refuse to become like you
Though you punch me with my words
I will not be like you
Heartless
Cold and callous
Crack open my sternum
You will find an orchestra
Playing with instruments of mercy
The key: B Major
I will sing songs of joy like those of heaven
Rocks and thistles will not be taking over my heart
Not today

Today and tomorrow
I am open to the light and peace of the One who rescued me from being a counterfeit
I will spend my time well
Use my words wisely
I refuse to be anything less than compassionate
I will sit in the cool shade of love and rest in this space
Hate is too much of a burden to bear

^{Photo by Anna Might (IG:@annamighttakepics)}