In the Teens of a New Century

We look back at the one just expired.

If there was progress, who were its stars?

Many had a darker skin than ours,

but all of them were fountains of love.

And now, who notices skin color?

We are able to love each other.

We elected a black president

with female secretary of state.

Our social fabric has been improved

with many prejudices removed.

Technology has pushed us ahead.

but some of our heroes are now dead.

Four of these were assassinated

and some others were contemplated.

Two Kennedies and Martin L. King

were killed here for their trouble making.

It’s trouble makers and heretics

who try to fix what we need to fix.

We need to honor those who speak out

who are now risking their lives no doubt.

We also need to look in our hearts

to see if we are doing our parts.

Not all of our heroes are dying.

But, we should praise those who are trying.

Walt Abbott – 6-13-2010