In thinking about abortion I thought about what it would take for me to take part in a formal protest. I have spoken up for people and I have spoken out on issues but never an organized protest. During this time of reflection, some protests occurred.
During the 4th of July week, we learned of Nike removing the Betsy Ross flag in part caused by complaints from Colin Kaepernick. We saw Megan Rapinoe protesting the flag while representing the US in the women’s world cup.
For the first time in my life, I have tried to seriously write poetry. In one of my early attempts, I tried to thoughtfully, reasonably and respectfully protest the protestors;
My Flag
The flag I see is old, tattered, worn, — a-flappin in the breeze.
Threads of slavery, lynching and unrest weave between the moans of Sand Creek and Wounded Knee
Asian, Hispanic and child sweat stains and miners coughed dust darkens
Unjust wars, fetuses and wrongful executions spill blood on the denial of rights for many
The flag I see is old, tattered, worn, — a-flappin in the breeze
Yet proudly I stand for pledge or song
not past perfection, but pride of progress and hope,
Muddling through past wrongs,
we stand on the rule of law, a union of the best
The flag I see is old, tattered, worn, — a-flappin in the breeze
My poem previously appeared as a letter to the editor for Al. Com. I wanted to share it with you.
Until next week
Love
Jerry
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