Courage
Courage is a small thing
like going to work every day
when one is brown
and ICE is all around
Courage is a small thing
like standing near schools
with whistles to blow to warn
if ICE comes to call.
Courage is a small thing
like writing/speaking the truth
when so many bend the knee
rather than exposing lies.
Courage is being a survivor
and standing up proudly
demanding files be released
seeking justice.
Courage is six veterans
in Congress making a video
explaining that service people
should not follow illegal orders.
Courage is doing something
either big or small
even if only inside one's mind
which says I resist.
*******
Written for Susan's prompt at What's Going On: Words of Fearlessness or Courage
Courage is the prime requirement at present, particularly for those in the minority.
ReplyDeleteYes! Wonderful examples of courage and resistance. I love the whistles. How sad that people have to protect those at schools full of children.
ReplyDelete"Courage is being a survivor" This is so true. Courage is a multifaceted gem always shining. Love the examples of courage you've presented here. The first one is chilling and sad.
ReplyDelete"Courage is doing something
ReplyDeleteeither big or small
even if only inside one's mind
which says I resist."
Bravo! "I resist" ! I love the irony of calling these courages "small" things. Each is so huge for those doing the actions.
Great poem of steps of courage and love the last stanza That's where it starts
ReplyDeleteI love your ending to this respectful and thoughtful poem - Jae
ReplyDeleteWonderful poem, Mary. Courage is doing fearlessly what you are afraid of doing! Thank heavens we still have people on this earth with enough humanity, and the courage to do what many people are afraid to do...
ReplyDeleteThe US seems so divided that there isn't enough momentum for those with courage to step forward and maybe everyone struggling is too busy making ends meet that there's not enough time to get organised.
ReplyDeleteYou had me from the first stanza on, Mary, with this hard-hitting indictment on all those things that instill fear in us now but draw us to live in courage, big or small. On this Thanksgiving Day, so grateful to those who stand shoulder to shoulder against injustice and tyranny, like the ones you mention in this wonderful poem.
ReplyDeleteThis is powerful. Attention needs to be paid.
ReplyDelete